Prime Minister Keir Starmer to attend French Armistice Day
The Prime Minister is set to participate in the 106th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice in Paris tomorrow, Monday, November 11th.
The first British leader to participate in the ceremony since Winston Churchill in 1944.
He revealed over £10 million in funding to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day happening next year.
On Monday, the Prime Minister will commemorate Armistice Day in Paris, becoming the first British leader to participate in this event since World War II.
At the personal request of President Macron, the Prime Minister will participate alongside French and British veterans, as well as the public, to honor those who lost their lives in World War I and in later battles.
The Prime Minister is thought to be the first leader of the UK to participate in the memorial events since Winston Churchill, who was welcomed by General de Gaulle in 1944.
This announcement coincides with the Prime Minister's declaration of over £10 million in funding to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of the Allied Victory in Europe and the conclusion of the Second World War in the Asia-Pacific region.
Next year, various events throughout the UK will honor their legacy, with May 8th commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in Europe and August 15th marking the conclusion of the Second World War in Japan.
The national remembrance activities will honor the countless military personnel from the UK and Commonwealth who fought in the Second World War on various fronts.
The Prime Minister's presence at the memorial events for the 106th anniversary of the Armistice of 1918 on Monday morning represents the strong and lasting bond between the UK and France.
Together with President Macron, the Prime Minister is set to commemorate by placing a wreath at war memorials near the Champs-Élysées and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located at the Arc de Triomphe, which stands as a national emblem in France honoring those who lost their lives in the First World War.
The event, featuring the British Band of the Rifles, takes place at the conclusion of a year that celebrates the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale and the 80th anniversary of the beginning of France's liberation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated:
"I'm truly grateful to be in Paris, standing alongside President Macron to pay our respects to those who lost their lives in World War I. They made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we cherish today."
These occasions are essential for keeping alive the memories of countless young soldiers, sailors, and aviators for future generations.
"This is why the Government plans to unite the country for a moment of reflection to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day next year. We are dedicated to enhancing community spirit and unity, while honoring those who sacrificed their lives."
Before the ceremony, the Prime Minister will welcome veterans, defense charities, and members of the British military who are part of the French system at the Ambassador's Residence to express gratitude for their service.
He will learn directly how, through the Lancaster House Treaties, British and French military members are developing strong bonds and enhancing their ability to work together, both now and in the future.
The Prime Minister is set to have a meeting with President Macron before the upcoming joint commemorations. During their time together, they will consider the strong relationship shared by their nations, a connection largely built on the sacrifices made by British and French troops during both World Wars. Additionally, the two leaders are likely to address significant foreign policy matters, such as the brutal invasion of Ukraine by Russia and the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
He is also anticipated to have a brief meeting with the newly appointed French Prime Minister, Michel Barnier, before the ceremony. This will mark their first encounter since Mr. Barnier took on the role of Prime Minister in France.
Planning for next year's commemorative events in the UK is already underway. The government is collaborating with the Royal British Legion and representatives from the veteran community to create a series of activities aimed at uniting the nation in a moment of reflection, enhancing community spirit and unity, and fostering development.
