President Joe Biden welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House on Thursday, as part of an official state visit. But when it came time to shake Macron’s hand, the president awkwardly gripped it and held it firmly for 42 seconds as the French leader stood awkwardly near the podium. “The temperature may be a little chilly on this December night – day, but our hearts are warm as we welcome such close friends to the White House,” Biden said during the arrival ceremony outdoors at the White House.
