Rishi Sunak strengthens ties with France in his first Franco-British summit
Date
3/12/2023 8:52:28 AM
(MENAFN) Rishi Sunak, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, has accomplished an important breakthrough in Franco-British relations during his first Franco-British summit, which included deals with Paris in crucial areas such as tackling illegal migration, enhancing energy security, and increasing defence cooperation. Despite being welcomed by his own MPs, perhaps Sunak's biggest accomplishment was creating a new friend in French President Emmanuel Macron.
After years of strained ties between the macron government and previous UK administrations, Sunak's intention to turn over a new leaf has been clear for some time. He referred to Macron as “mon ami,” or “my friend” in French, which left no doubt about his objectives. Sunak's display of affection towards Macron was reciprocated by the French President, who declared Sunak a “friend of Britain.”
Both leaders have many similarities, having worked in economics before entering politics and becoming leaders of their respective nations. They participated in a group discussion with government ministers from both sides and also held one-on-one discussions.
Sunak's approach to European leaders is notably different from that of his predecessor Liz Truss and, before her, Boris Johnson. During a joint press conference following the summit, Sunak and Macron displayed mutual respect that has been absent in UK-European relations since Brexit. The relationship between the two leaders, known as “Le Bromance,” is flourishing, as demonstrated by the backslapping, handshaking, and arms around shoulders during the meeting.
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