President Joe Biden is in France for a state visit with President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen their alliance on global security issues, particularly regarding Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion.
They marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day and met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to emphasize their support.
However, their partnership has been strained due to trade tensions and the delay in US aid to Ukraine.
The visit includes ceremonies at the Arc de Triomphe and the Elysee Palace, where they will hold official meetings and deliver statements.
President
Joe Biden and his wife Jill attended a state dinner at the French palace during Biden's five-day visit to France in May 2023.
This was Biden's first state visit to Europe since the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Jill accompanied Biden after flying back from Delaware to support their son Hunter, who is on trial for federal gun charges.
The far right is expected to perform well in the European Parliament elections, while Macron's pro-European Union movement is struggling.
Macron and Biden have a friendly relationship, and the lengthy visit underscores the significance Biden places on the trip.
A French official spoke anonymously about the warm relationship between the leaders.
French President Emmanuel Macron and US President
Joe Biden are set to discuss various issues during their meeting at the Normandy landing beaches, with a focus on the alliance between the two countries and Ukraine.
The US-French relationship has remained strong despite past disagreements, and Macron previously hosted both
Donald Trump and Biden for official visits.
Kirby, the White House national security spokesman, noted the historical significance of French assistance in America's fight for independence.
Max Bergmann, a former US State Department official, also emphasized the enduring strength of the alliance.
The agenda includes discussions on Ukraine, but the primary focus is on reinforcing the long-standing alliance between the US and France.
The text discusses the tensions in Franco-American relations due to France's bold proposals, such as sending trainers to Ukraine, which can lead to friction with the US.
French President Emmanuel Macron is described as a leader who pushes boundaries and comes up with new ideas.
The two leaders were expected to announce deeper maritime law enforcement cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and discuss economic and climate challenges.
Macron has previously stated that Europe should be more self-reliant in defending its interests, even if it means doing so alone.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned Western powers against showing weakness towards Russia and suggested the possibility of sending troops to Ukraine.
He also planned to discuss ceasefire efforts in the Israel-Hamas conflict and raise concerns about US trade practices, specifically the Inflation Reduction Act, during a meeting with US President
Joe Biden.
Macron criticized the US for not adhering to global trade rules and favoring domestic industries while Europe's industry faces overregulation.