Emmanuel Macron's recent state visit to the United Kingdom marked a significant turning point in Anglo-French relations, aiming to draw a decisive line under the contentious Brexit years and foster a reinvigorated bond. The French president's office emphasized the paramount importance of "shared interests" and an "essential" close relationship on the international stage, a sentiment echoed by UK officials who deemed the cross-Channel connection "vital." Symbolically, Macron became the first European Union leader to undertake a pomp-filled state visit to the UK since Brexit, and notably, the first European head of state hosted by King Charles III, preceding even US President Donald Trump.

This renewed diplomatic effort comes at a crucial juncture, characterized by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, alongside the perceived unpredictability of the US presidency. While bilateral ties in security and defence remained largely unaffected by Brexit, the visit provided a platform to deepen and update these connections, particularly through a Franco-British summit at Downing Street. Both nations lead the "coalition of the willing" on Ukraine, underscoring their commitment to maintaining arms supplies and exploring a potential post-ceasefire security force.

The path to reconciliation was not without its hurdles. The Brexit years were plagued by damaging spats, epitomized by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson's dismissive remarks, bitter disputes over submarine contracts with Australia, and contentious fishing rights. Trust and dialogue had significantly eroded, further highlighted by Liz Truss's deliberate refusal to label Macron as a friend or foe. However, relations began to thaw under Rishi Sunak's premiership, notably aided by King Charles III's successful state visit to France in 2023, where his affection for French culture and warm reception signaled a new chapter. Furthermore, the unusually frequent meetings between Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, with both leaders traveling extensively to meet each other, demonstrate a strong mutual commitment to overcoming past divisions. According to Sébastien Maillard of the Jacques Delors Institute, the changing geopolitical landscape has made it "more compelling for both sides to make up," especially as permanent members of the UN Security Council with nuclear deterrents.

The ceremonial aspects of the visit underscored its importance. Upon arrival at RAF Northolt, the Macrons were greeted by the Prince and Princess of Wales before proceeding to Windsor town centre to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The journey to Windsor Castle in open-top carriages, accompanied by the Household Cavalry, captivated crowds lining the streets. Highlights included a ceremonial inspection of troops, a state banquet at Windsor Castle where King Charles emphasized the shared history, culture, and values, and Macron's address to MPs and peers at Westminster. King Charles III's role in this diplomacy was deemed significant, described as "more than a figurehead" due to his extensive experience in international affairs and deep affinity for France, serving as a "soft power" opportunity to strengthen partnerships.

Despite the grand pageantry and renewed camaraderie, a persistent and difficult issue dominated the political discussions: the escalating crisis of small boat crossings across the Channel. With nearly 20,000 people having arrived in the UK via small boats in the first six months of 2025—a 50% increase compared to the same period in 2024—and tragic fatalities, both governments face intense domestic pressure. Discussions centered on practical solutions, including the possibility of allowing French police to intervene against British-bound boats in deeper coastal waters, which would require a legal decision from sea authorities. The UK also presses France to address "pull factors" and considers a "one-in, one-out" agreement for asylum seeker returns. While France has received British funding for patrols, critics on both sides acknowledge the complexity, with Christian Lequesne of Paris's Sciences Po noting that both Starmer and Macron are under pressure from rising far-right and anti-immigration rhetoric from figures like Marine Le Pen and Nigel Farage.

In a notable political side-note, Reform UK's deputy leader Richard Tice criticized Emmanuel Macron for declining to meet Nigel Farage, despite Reform's strong polling. Macron, however, held talks with Sir Keir Starmer, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey. This decision was seen by Reform as an "outrageous and deliberate snub," suggesting it was related to the Channel migrant issue. Looking ahead, while some lingering mistrust from Brexit may remain, the compelling geopolitical reasons—including the Russian threat and how to handle a potential Trump presidency—are driving both nations to rebuild trust. The visit signaled a mutual willingness to tackle divisions, with the hope that practical agreements on migration and sustained cooperation on defence will further solidify this crucial bilateral relationship, serving as a potential pilot for broader European solutions.