Keir Starmer attends Paris Armistice ceremony, the first UK prime minister to do so since World War II

London
CNN
 — 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was attending Armistice commemorations in Paris on Monday, making him the first UK leader to attend the ceremony in the French capital since World War II, according to his office.

Starmer joined French and British veterans alongside French President Emmanuel Macron to honor those who died in World War I as well as veterans of subsequent conflicts, according to No. 10 Downing Street.

The last UK leader thought to have attended commemorations in the French capital was former Prime Minister Winston Churchill at the invitation of General Charles de Gaulle in 1944.

The British prime minister, alongside Macron, laid wreathes at various monuments throughout Paris, including the Winston Churchill Statue and the Tomb of the Unknown soldier – a symbol in France commemorating those who died during World War I. Both the British and French national anthems were played as the leaders paid their respects.

“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 said.

“These events are vital in ensuring the memory of millions of young soldiers, sailors, and aviators live on for generations to come,” he added.

Starmer’s presence, at the personal invitation of Macron, symbolizes “the close and enduring friendship between the UK and France,” the PM’s office said.

Ahead of Monday’s commemorations, Starmer met Macron for a bilateral meeting to discuss topics including Russia’s war in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

He was also expected to meet his French counterpart Michel Barnier – the first time the pair have met since Barnier became France’s prime minister in September.

Monday’s visit comes as Starmer also announces more than £10 million (almost $13 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.

Starmer’s office announced events will be held across the UK next year to mark the anniversaries on May 8 and August 15 respectively.

“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,” Starmer said.