King Charles’ trip to France canceled due to escalating protests

King Charles and Queen Consort Camila were set to visit France on Sunday, but due to escalating protests across the country, the king and his wife have canceled their trip.

The king’s Europe trip, which was supposed to be his first tour since taking the throne, will still go on however, as the royal couple will still be making their visit to Germany.

With the riots in France becoming increasingly more violent, King Charles and Camilla thought it prudent to make other plans. The couple had been reportedly keeping a close eye on the riots, particularly in Paris and Bordeaux, where they were scheduled to visit.

King Charles and Camilla were set to attend a state banquet at Château de Versailles, which is just outside Paris, and tour an organic vineyard in Bordeaux.

France announced the news first

French president Emmanuel Macron was the one to break the news of the cancellation first, which was shared from his office at the Elysee Palace early Friday morning.

According to the BBC, Marcon’s announcement followed discussions with the U.K. government.

Buckingham releases statement

Buckingham Palace then issued a statement confirming that King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla would cancel their plans to go to France, and reschedule “when dates can be found”.

“The King and The Queen Consort’s State Visit to France has been postponed,” the statement said. “Their Majesties greatly look forward to the opportunity to visit France as soon as dates can be found.”

Palace officials had said Wednesday that the developments in France were being monitored very closely, and that King Charles would be taking advice from the U.K.’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office, as well as their French counterparts, whilst making the decision.

The purpose of King Charles’ Eurotrip

The king, age 74, and Camilla, age 75, still plan to visit Germany on March 29.

The tour to France and Germany was originally planned to “celebrate the U.K.’s relationship with France and Germany, marking our shared histories, culture and values.”

“It is also a chance to look forwards and show the many ways our countries are working in partnership,” the palace’s spokesperson said, “whether that be to tackle climate change; respond to the conflict in Ukraine; seize trade and investment opportunities or share the best of our arts and culture.”

“As well as speaking to the strength of the United Kingdom’s bilateral relationships with France and Germany, Their Majesties’ visit will include engagements highlighting the importance of sustainability and community — key themes which have been embraced by citizens of all our countries,” the spokesperson continued. “There will also be opportunities to reflect on the sacrifices and challenges of our shared past, out of which has come an enduring legacy of cooperation and reconciliation.”