Macrons Visit Spain for State Banquet Amid Strengthening Ties
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia hosted French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte for a state banquet in Madrid, marking the first such visit by a French head of state since 2009.
Queen Letizia of Spain hosted French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron for a state banquet at Madrid's Royal Palace on Tuesday night. King Felipe VI stood beside her as they welcomed the French leaders, marking the first state visit by a French President to Spain since 2009. The trip aims to strengthen political, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Queen Letizia wore a Carolina Herrera floor-length gown in a shade called Cloudy Blue, paired with the Spanish Floral Tiara. This historic tiara, gifted to Queen Sofia in 1962, is a frequent choice for Queen Letizia at state dinners. Her accessories included Martinelli Redondo 'Monroe' Metallic Leather Platform Sandals. President Macron wore the insignia for the Collar of the Order of Isabella the Catholic, while Brigitte Macron was honored with the Grand Cross of the same order, recognizing bilateral relations between France and Spain.
Brigitte Macron appeared in a white column dress with silver side detailing, a sparkling clutch, and drop earrings. President Macron acknowledged Princess Leonor of Spain, who recently began her university studies, during a speech at the dinner. The menu for the banquet was curated by Michelin chef Joan Roca.
Earlier in the day, King Felipe and Queen Letizia met with the Macrons at the Royal Palace and later attended a luncheon at the Palace of La Zarzuela. The French President and the Spanish King observed a battalion of the Royal Guard and participated in a parade before holding discussions on bilateral relations. A key focus of these discussions is believed to be the Friendship and Cooperation Treaty signed by Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in January 2023.
Separately, President Macron and Brigitte Macron recently hosted Princess Charlene and Prince Albert II of Monaco for an event titled 'At the Roots of Europe for Peace and Unity' near the German border. Pope Leo XIV addressed this conference, urging European unity and drawing from the continent's Christian roots to overcome conflict. Princess Charlene attended in a white suit ensemble, adhering to the 'privilège du blanc' tradition, which permits certain Catholic queens and princesses to wear white when meeting the Pope. Brigitte Macron, following standard papal audience protocol, wore a black dress with a gold brooch.