UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to participate in Armistice Day commemorations in France, marking a historic occasion as the first UK leader since Winston Churchill to join French leaders in honoring the end of World War I. Invited personally by President Emmanuel Macron, Sir Keir will attend memorial events to remember the sacrifices of British and French forces alongside veterans and citizens.
Ahead of the commemorations, Sir Keir and President Macron are expected to discuss pressing global issues, including the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Sir Keir will also lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe, a tribute to those who have given their lives for France.
This visit coincides with the UK government’s announcement of more than £10 million in funding to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day next year.
Meanwhile, King Charles attended UK Remembrance events despite undergoing cancer treatment, while Queen Camilla was absent due to a chest infection. The King was joined by Prince William and the Princess of Wales, who has returned to public engagements following her own cancer treatment.
