LONDON (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday urged Britain to stick close to its neighbors despite its exit from the European Union, saying France and the U.K. will “save Europe” by standing for democracy, law and international order in a dangerous world.

Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron joked about Larry the cat, ahead of talks to finalise a plan on tackling migrants crossing the Channel on small boats.

King Charles III will highlight the crucial bonds between the United Kingdom and France in the face of a “multitude of complex threats” as he welcomes President Emmanuel Macron for the first state visit by a European leader since Brexit.

French President Emmanuel Macron attended yet another lavish banquet Wednesday evening in London, this one hosted by London Lord Mayor Alderman Alastair King.

President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Britain, which began Tuesday, is heavy on pageantry. But both he and Prime Minister Keir Starmer hope for practical results.

The French president and his wife Brigitte were earlier greeted by Prince William and Catherine as they landed in the UK for a three-day trip.