French President Macron conducts State visit to Spain

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, conducted a State visit to Spain, marked by military honors and a gala banquet at the Royal Palace in Madrid. The visit, the first of its kind from France to Spain since 2009, included a private lunch at the Zarzuela Palace and official speeches by King Felipe VI.

Princess Leonor of Asturias was notably absent from the formal State dinner. Reports indicate the Royal House is reserving the Princess's debut at a State banquet for a more significant occasion, likely the anticipated State visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, currently projected for the second half of 2027. During the gala, President Macron included a symbolic gesture in his toast by mentioning both Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía.

The visit also faced minor logistical challenges, including a 45-minute delay in the Macrons' arrival due to the presidential plane's late departure from Paris.