The state visit to France by King Charles III, which was initially postponed due to violent protests, is now reportedly scheduled to proceed next month - coinciding with the presence of the
Pope.
According to French ministerial sources, King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to arrive in Paris around September 23rd to 24th.
Interestingly, this is the same weekend when Pope Francis is anticipated to be in the southern city of Marseille, greeted by a multitude of French Roman Catholics.
Simultaneously, the Rugby World Cup will be unfolding in various major French cities, featuring prominent British teams, including England.
The royal couple is poised to commence their visit by being welcomed by President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, in the French capital. They will then journey to the southwestern city of Bordeaux, as per sources.
The postponement of King Charles' state visit earlier was a consequence of widespread protests that compelled the British security services to abort the plans. The riots in March halted the four-day royal state visit, which was to include a grand state banquet at the Palace of Versailles.
The planned attacks encompassed threats from trade unionists in Bordeaux and a group of revolutionaries in Versailles, who associated the chateau with the events of the 1789 Revolution and the subsequent fate of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie-Antoinette.
In light of the disruption caused by the protest movement, President Macron's second term was met with considerable turmoil, affecting various sectors such as transport, schools, and public services.
King Charles' visit to France holds particular significance, especially considering Queen Elizabeth II's affinity for the country, having undertaken numerous state visits there.
As the situation evolves, official announcements from Buckingham Palace are awaited regarding the details of King Charles' impending state visit. Photo by Dan Marsh, Wikimedia commons.