Biden to travel to France in June for state visit, Normandy commemoration

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - US President Joe Biden will travel to France next week to mark the 80th anniversary of the allied invasion of Normandy, and will then hold an official state visit in Paris.

Biden will depart for France on June 5, and meet US military veterans the following day in Normandy during D-Day commemoration ceremonies, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement. He will also deliver remarks at Pointe du Hoc on the northwestern coast of Normandy on June 7.

Biden will depart Normandy for Paris on June 8, and will be hosted by French President Emanuel Macron for an official state visit.

"The State Visit will reflect the enduring and comprehensive relationship between the United States and France, our oldest ally, founded on shared democratic values, economic ties, and defense and security cooperation. President Biden and President Macron will have the opportunity to discuss a wide range of global challenges and bilateral issues," the White House said.

Biden last hosted Macron for a state visit at the White House in December 2022.

Next week's meeting comes ahead of a pair of pivotal international summits, including the June 13-15 G-7 summit in Italy, and the NATO leaders summit in Washington, July 9-11.

Continued allied support for Ukraine is expected to dominate discussions.