Biden Welcomes French President to White House: 'Our Oldest Ally'

President Biden is hosting French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House on Thursday to celebrate 200 years of French-U.S. collaboration. The two world leaders are meeting amid an economic and energy crisis in Europe stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as increasing tension between China and Western nations.

Key Quotes: At the welcoming ceremony, Biden called France “our oldest ally, our unwavering partner in freedom's cause,” and stated that “the choices we make today and the years ahead will determine the course of our world for decades to come.” Speaking on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Macron emphasized the importance of the U.S.-French alliance as conflict returns to Europe, stating, “we need to become brothers in arms once more.” While the two leaders agreed on matters of geopolitics, Macron pressed Biden on the Inflation Reduction Act, which Macron fears will decrease U.S. investment in Europe and “fragment the West.”

For Context: Biden’s state dinner held in honor of Macron’s visit is the first of his presidency. France has been an outspoken supporter and financier of Ukraine’s resistance against the Russian invasion. The last time the U.S. hosted a French leader was in 2018 when former president Donald Trump hosted Macron.

How the Media Covered It: Macron’s visit is being covered across the spectrum. An article in the Associated Press outlined recent developments between the U.S. and France, including a dispute over a submarine sale to Australia.