Washington [U.S.A], May 9 (ANI) : U.S. President Donald Trump and French President-elect Emmanuel Macron will meet on the sidelines of the NATO leaders meet in Brussels on 25 May,2017. "President Trump emphasized his desire to work closely with president -elect Macron in confronting shared challenges, and noted the long and robust history of cooperation between the United States and its oldest ally, France," the White House said. President Trump had congratulated President-elect Emmanuel Macron on his victory in the May 7th French presidential election.

Congratulations to Emmanuel Macron on his big win today as the next President of France. I look very much forward to working with him!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 7, 2017

It is expected that both the leaders will discuss defense, counter-terrorism policy. During his campaign, Macron has been advocating for a greater co-operation and integration with the European Union on fiscal and social regulation. He is likely to boost Franco-German ties and US-France relations. Emmanuel macron has vowed to fight a divided and fractured France after wining a decisive victory over the far-right Front National candidate Marine Le Pen in the country's presidential election. Addressing his supporters in the grand courtyard of the Louvre, Macron said he would defend France and Europe. He said Europe and the world are "watching us" and waiting for us to deend the spirit of the Enlightenment,threatened in so many places." The handover of power will take place next weekend. The ceremony will follow as- Macron will go to the Elysee and be received in the courtyard by Hollande . After a brief chat, Hollande will leave the presidential palace accompanied by the Republican Guard. (ANI)