The Prime Minister hosted French President Emmanuel Macron at Downing Street today, 3 September 2026. The Prime Minister thanked President Macron for France’s loan of the Bayeux Tapestry, which he described as symbolising common bonds and unity.
Regarding small boats, the Prime Minister stated that cooperation between the two countries was effective, with operational teams making progress in reducing numbers and crossings. Both leaders agreed on the importance of scaling up this success across Europe to deter illegal migration.
Discussions also covered the UK’s drive to get closer to Europe, with the Prime Minister highlighting potential challenges for UK industry from the 'Made in Europe' agenda. The leaders agreed to work together to protect shared interests.
On Ukraine, they discussed next steps for establishing local assembly lines in Ukraine for the SCALP long-range missile, which incorporates British technology. They also reflected on the recent Coalition of the Willing meeting in Kyiv.
The leaders addressed the situation in the Middle East, including the need for de-escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Prime Minister raised Israel’s latest move on the E1 settlement, calling it unacceptable and detrimental to the prospect of a two-state solution.