Macron invites Johnson to France

The offer was made during a phone call last night, which was the first opportunity for a conversation between the leaders.

Speaking from Brégançon Fort in the Var, the traditional holiday home of French presidents, Elysée sources said Mr Macron “congratulated Mr Johnson on his nomination” and “expressed his pleasure in being able to cooperate on bilateral, European and international subjects”.

The two men agreed to meet to notably discuss Brexit in coming weeks, but “respecting the requirements of the European Union”.

Minister for European Affairs Amélie de Monchalin said on France 2 radio : « We want to work with Boris Johnson on Brexit but we will not renegotiate the withdrawal agreement.”

The outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker reiterated to Mr Johnson yesterday in a phone call that the agreement is not up for renegotiation and is “the best and only agreement possible”.

Also yesterday EU negotiator Michel Barnier referred to Mr Johnson’s “combative” words since becoming Prime Minister and advised the EU states to stick to their principles and maintain unity.

Mr Johnson is also expected to visit France in a month's time for the G7 summit in Biarritz from August 24-26.