Labor groups demanded more protests against Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms during the royal visit.
The first state visit of the King’s reign has been postponed due to widespread disturbance in France over President Emmanuel Macron’s reforms to the retirement age.
Mr. Macron stated that the travel would likely be rescheduled for the beginning of summer.
The British and French governments made a joint decision after trade unions requested an additional day of nationwide strikes and demonstrations during the scheduled visit of the King and Queen Consort.
The three-day trip to France, which was scheduled to commence on Sunday and be followed by a state visit to Germany, had been planned for months by the United Kingdom and the host countries to strengthen ties between Britain and its European allies.
The King’s first royal visit to Berlin will happen on March 29–31.
Mr. Macron stated that the state visit would be “irrelevant” amid the nationwide demonstrations.
He told a news briefing that the Sunday visit “would have provoked incidents” that were “abhorrent.”
The postponement will be a significant embarrassment for the French president, who had hoped the trip would be a symbolic step in the two nations’ efforts to turn the page on years of strained relations following Brexit.
Mr. Macron, who wants to head Europe, also won.
In a statement, the Elysee Palace stated, “This decision was made by the French and British governments, following a telephone conversation between the president of the Republic and the King this morning, to welcome His Majesty King Charles III in conditions that are consistent with our friendly relationship.”
This state visit will be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity.
“Their majesties eagerly anticipate the opportunity to visit France as soon as dates are determined,” Buckingham Palace said.
“After the French president requested that the visit be postponed,” a British government spokesman said.
The trip’s arrangements were likely reviewed for several days and public contact was being evaluated.
“France is currently dangerous”
President Macron unilaterally raised the retirement age to 64, inciting public anger.
The French CGT union announced this week that its members at Mobilier National, the organization responsible for providing flags, crimson carpets, and furniture for public buildings, would not assist in preparing a reception for the King upon his arrival in Paris on a Sunday.
Jean-Luc Melenchon, a hard-left politician, hailed the cancellation.
Opponents have frequently accused Mr. Macron of acting like an aspiring monarch.
Mr. Melenchon tweeted, “The meeting of the kings at Versailles has been shattered by public criticism.”
Dorian Ginggen, a 23-year-old Parisian, stated, “The King is correct.” (not to come).
“France is currently dangerous due to the demonstrations. Moreover, he must recognize that the French must be heard (by their government).”
