British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to make history as he travels to France on Monday to attend Armistice commemorations in Paris. This marks the first time a UK leader will attend the ceremony since World War II, according to his office.
Starmer will join French and British veterans alongside French President Emmanuel Macron to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in World War I and subsequent conflicts. The event will take place near the Champ-Élysées and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe, significant memorials honoring the fallen soldiers.
The last UK leader believed to have attended similar commemorations in Paris was former Prime Minister Winston Churchill in 1944, at the invitation of General Charles de Gaulle.
Expressing his honor to be part of the event, Starmer stated, 'I am honored to be in Paris to stand united with President Macron in tribute to the fallen of the First World War who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today.'
Starmer's presence at the ceremony, upon the personal invitation of Macron, signifies the enduring friendship between the UK and France, as highlighted by the Prime Minister's office.
During his visit, Starmer is expected to engage in a bilateral meeting with Macron to discuss pressing issues such as Russia's war in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Additionally, he will meet with French Prime Minister Michel Barnier for the first time since Barnier assumed office in September.
As part of the commemorations, Starmer's office announced a commitment of over £10 million to mark the 80th anniversaries of the Allied Victory in Europe and the end of World War II in the Far East in 1945. Events are planned across the UK next year to honor the anniversaries on May 8 and August 15, respectively.
Starmer emphasized the importance of these events, stating, 'This government will bring the nation together in a moment of national reflection to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE (Victory in Europe) and VJ (Victory over Japan) Day next year, delivering on our commitment to strengthen community spirit and cohesion and remember the fallen.'
