LONDON: French President Emmanuel Macron, during his state visit to the United Kingdom, has called for a fresh chapter in UK–France relations, declaring that it is time to “move on from the Brexit nightmare.” His remarks, delivered during a joint address with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, signal a significant diplomatic shift aimed at healing years of tension following the UK’s departure from the EU.

Macron praised the new Labour government’s efforts to rebuild trust and cooperation with European partners, and expressed confidence in Starmer’s pro-European stance. He emphasised that while the UK’s EU exit remains a reality, both nations must focus on pragmatic collaboration in areas such as security, trade, and climate change.

The French leader’s visit marks the first official state visit by a French president to the UK in over a decade and is seen as a symbolic reset following years of strained ties under previous administrations. The itinerary includes engagements with King Charles III and a formal address at Westminster.

Macron’s comments have been welcomed in both London and Brussels as a signal of stabilising relations and shared priorities between the UK and its continental neighbours.