President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Honored at State Dinner in Paris

On June 8, 2024, President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden were honored at a state dinner at the Presidential Elysee Palace in Paris, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and first lady Brigitte Macron. The event marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day and highlighted the enduring strength of the long alliance between the United States and France.

Remarks by President Biden and President Macron

During the dinner, President Biden emphasized the significance of France as the United States' first ally, acknowledging the pivotal role of this alliance. President Macron commented on the close relationship between the two countries, drawing parallels between their shared history and the unity demonstrated by soldiers 80 years ago during D-Day.

Notable Guests

The state dinner was graced by notable personalities, including actor Salma Hayek, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, former tennis player John McEnroe, and U.S. singer Patty Smyth. The evening's entertainment was provided by singer Pharrell Williams. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife, French-Italian model and musician Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, were also among the esteemed attendees, adding to the distinguished gathering at the Elysee Palace.

The arrival of actor Salma Hayek accompanied by her husband, Francois-Henri Pinault, the billionaire and chief executive officer of Kering SA, added glamour to the event. Furthermore, former tennis player John McEnroe and his wife, U.S. singer Patty Smyth, were present, contributing to the star-studded affair.