Biden, Macron discuss France, U.S. relations

French President Emanuel Macron arrived in the United States on Wednesday for his first visit during President Joe Biden’s term. On Thursday, Macron and Biden met to reaffirm a united West in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The two also pledged unity against climate change. The black-tie event was carefully planned to paint U.S.-French relations in the best light possible.

Have they disagreed on anything? On Wednesday, Macron had dinner with the president and the first lady, visited NASA, and gave a speech at the French Embassy. During his speech, Macron said the Inflation Reduction Act, which Biden championed, will divide the West. The energy bill focuses on improving American technologies, which Macron said could encourage investments in American companies—rather than European ones. He said part of his agenda for this trip is to “resynchronize” Europe and America.

Dig deeper: Read Jenny Lind Schmitt’s report in WORLD Magazine on Macron’s reelection.