I wish to give recognition to the special and unique events that took place in London and Paris yesterday to mark the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale. In 1904, the United Kingdom and France signed a series of agreements that became known as the Entente Cordiale, which ushered in a new era of friendship between the UK and France.

Yesterday, to mark the 120th anniversary, in our nation's capital, French soldiers took part, for the first time, in the changing of the guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. It included the playing of 'La Marseillaise' and the carrying of the French flag during the changing of the guard. It was the first time that soldiers from outside the Commonwealth have taken part in this prestigious ceremony. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were there in place of the monarch at the ceremony. Edward and Sophie inspected the troops from both nations as they represented His Majesty King Charles, who continues his cancer treatment. We convey our congratulations to Charles and Camilla on their 19th wedding anniversary today.

Meanwhile, yesterday in Paris, at the same time, 16 soldiers from the Coldstream Guards took part in the changing of the guard at the Élysée Palace. They were not just the first British soldiers but the first from any nation outside France to take part in the ceremony. The ceremony included the singing of 'God Save the King' by a French military choir.

The military and diplomatic cooperation of the Entente Cordiale has endured through two world wars and subsequent conflicts. It laid a foundation for cooperation between our nations through NATO. It predated EU membership and, of course, demonstrates that UK cooperation with our European neighbours is valued and endures post-Brexit.

The United Kingdom and France are at a very high position by any measurement of soft power in the world, given their ability to have influence and be respected by other countries. Both nations are strong advocates for democracy and peace, promoting positive cultural and political values. In recognition of that enduring Anglo-French agreement, we say, "Vive la France" and "God save the King".