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British Royals

The King and President Macron enjoy a 28-second handshake as the French State Visit comes to an end

King Charles III and President Emmanuel Macron marked the conclusion of the French State Visit on Wednesday morning with a notably prolonged handshake, lasting 28 seconds.

The farewell moment, captured on camera, took place at the Sovereign’s Entrance at Windsor Castle.

In a striking symbol of friendship between the two heads of state, Mr Macron  the sovereign’s arm in a warm embrace for a total of 28 seconds while exchanging parting words.

Meanwhile, Queen Camilla and Brigitte Macron exchanged double kisses on the cheeks.

This underscores the visit’s overriding purpose of renewed Franco-British friendship.

President Macron’s three-day State Visit to the UK saw him take part in a carriage procession, as well as enjoying an exquisite State Banquet at Windsor Castle.

His Excellency and and his wife, Brigitte, also spent a private moment laying flowers at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II.

About author

Charlie Proctor has been a royal correspondent for over a decade, and has provided his expertise to countless organisations, including the BBC, CBC, and national and international publications.