British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is going to France on Monday (November 11) to participate in the Armistice Commemoration. The event is organized to mark the symbolic end of World War I and to honor the soldiers. It will be the first time a UK Prime Minister will attend the event since World War II. The American media reported on CNN.
According to the statement released by the British Prime Minister's office, Starmer will honor the soldiers who died in the First World War and various subsequent conflicts. French and British veterans including French President Emmanuel Macron will be present with him at that time.
Winston Churchill was the last British Prime Minister to attend the Paris commemoration. He is believed to have attended the event in 1944 at the invitation of then French leader General Charles de Gaulle.
Starmer said, “I am honored to be at President Macron's side to honor the soldiers who gave their lives in the First World War.” Today we can enjoy the taste of freedom because of the heroes who gave their lives.
He further said that such an event is very important to keep alive the memory of millions of young fighters, sailors and airmen.
Starmer is going to Paris on the personal invitation of Macron. Starmer's office said in a statement that it was a symbol of the sincere and sustainable relationship between the two countries.
The two leaders are scheduled to hold a meeting on several bilateral issues before attending the event. Their agenda may include issues related to the Ukraine-Russia war and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Starmer's visit to Paris comes after the announcement of a US$1.3 million allocation to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the Allied victory in Europe.
Starmer said the government will unite the entire nation to commemorate the 80th anniversary of 'Victory in Europe' and 'Victory over Japan' next year. Through this, we will fulfill our pledge to honor the memory of our national unity and martyrs.
