Riots in France put brakes on Macron’s historic Germany visit

French President Emmanuel Macron has decided to delay his state visit to Germany due to escalating turmoil in his own country, sparked by riots, looting, and arson.

The request for postponement was communicated to the German presidency by Macron, who updated German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on the escalating unrest in France.

The German presidency has confirmed that Macron asked for a delay of his forthcoming state visit to Germany. The details of a rescheduled visit were not disclosed in the announcement. Steinmeier expressed regret over the delay but affirmed his understanding, given the turbulent circumstances in France. He voiced his hope for a swift end to the violent outbreaks and the restoration of social peace.

Emmanuel Macron’s Germany visit on hold as France erupts in chaos. Photo courtesy of Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances français/Wikimedia Commons.

Macron’s visit to Germany was due to commence on Sunday, July 2, on Steinmeier’s invitation. This visit would have marked the first state visit from a French president to Germany in 23 years, following Jacques Chirac’s journey to Berlin in 2000.

The visit was scheduled to last from July 2 to 4, and according to Steinmeier’s office, it aimed to commemorate the close friendship between the two countries, marking the 60th anniversary of the Elysée Treaty on bilateral relations. During his stay, Macron planned to explore various German regions to underscore the unique bonds between the two countries and their citizens, especially the youth.

France is currently grappling with chaos following the protests that erupted after a teenager was shot and killed, which subsequently evolved into nationwide riots. The violent demonstrations, mostly led by young people, have resulted in clashes with the police and the looting of high-end stores, putting additional strain on President Macron.

Reports suggest that more than 1,300 people have been arrested since the onset of protests four days ago. In response, over 45,000 police officers, including special forces, have been deployed to control the situation, particularly in Marseille and Lyon, the epicenters of the violence.