120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale (8 April 2024)
In 1904, the signing of the Entente Cordiale ended several centuries of rivalry between France and Britain, heralding a new era in relations between France and the UK.
This set of agreements, signed in London on 8 April 1904, focused on foreign policy and particularly on colonial disputes and on fishing rights in Newfoundland. Although very much influenced by the considerations of the time, the agreements would be the starting point and the foundation for fruitful cooperation between our countries and for unwavering solidarity in the face of the hardships of the 20th century, particularly during the two world wars. In the darkest times, we remained side by side defending our values and promoting peace in Europe and the world.
Our two countries built a strong bilateral relationship and close cooperation in the multilateral forums – be it in military terms within NATO or diplomatic terms within the United Nations Security Council.
The legacy of the Entente Cordiale has also brought our two peoples closer together by creating the conditions for cultural, educational and trade exchanges, in order to consolidate what is a genuine friendship. Today we have exchanges in every field and are working together to tackle the challenges of the future. Amid the resurgence of conflicts in Europe, we can draw on the Lancaster House treaties. In the face of climate change, we are working together to resolve the energy crisis and more effectively protect the environment and biodiversity. In the field of new technology, we are working closely on the opportunities that artificial intelligence offers us, but also on the risks it may create.
In 2024 we shall be celebrating both the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale and the 80th anniversary of the Landings that enabled France to be liberated in 1944: two of the most significant moments in our relationship. Finally, we shall also have an opportunity to celebrate our shared love of sport this year, at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.