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.

The latest Franco-British move is the closest the continent has come to such a strategic capability, at least on paper.

The King and President Emmanuel Macron enjoyed a long goodbye as the two men bid farewell after a successful start to the French leader’s state visit. In a sign of their friendship, Charles and the French leader clasped hands for 28 seconds as they parted company at Windsor Castle when the first element of the three-day trip came to an end.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are focusing on stopping migrant crossings in the English Channel

In honor of the France state visit to the U.K., Kate Middleton, Prince William, King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed their guests in regal fashion. See the best photos.

The King has spoken of the deepening co-operation between the UK and France that will protect against “profound challenges” such as terrorism, organised crime and “irregular migration” across the English Channel.

King Charles III highlighted the crucial bonds between the United Kingdom and France in the face of a “multitude of more complex threats,” as he welcomed President Emmanuel Macron for the first state visit by a European leader to his country since Brexit.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla gave French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, a warm welcome at Windsor Castle.