UK will remain a friend of France even if not part of EU Hollande

French President Francois Hollande on Friday (July 1) that the United Kingdom would remain a “friend” of France regardless of whether it left the European Union or not.

Speaking on the sidelines of a memorial ceremony in Thiepval to mark the Battle of the Somme centenary, Hollande said that the event was a reminder that the United Kingdom was an “ally… no matter what happens”.

Members of the British royal family and Prime Minister David Cameron also attended the special service of remembrance to commemorate the devastating World War One clash, which was one of the bloodiest battles in history.