Donald Trump on Emmanuel Macron: 'He loves holding my hand'

After an awkward start to their working relationship, it seems that things have improved between Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron.

The pair first met in June at the Nato summit, and that involved a couple of very awkward handshakes all for the cameras to see.

Relations soured further when Trump announced the US 'exit from the Paris climate accord.

But things have taken a positive turn following his short visit to Paris for the Bastille Day celebrations.

After being wined and dined in the Eiffel Tower and being the guest of honour at the annual military parade, the pair engaged in a mammoth handshake as he left for Washington.

And it seems that this hand-holding has left a lasting impression on the US president.

Speaking to the New York Times about Macron he said: "He's a great guy — smart, strong, loves holding my hand. People don't realise, he loves holding my hand — that's good!"

The interview also revealed that Trump had raised concerns about going so soon after he had decided to quit the climate agreement, "I said, 'Do you think it's a good thing for me?'"

He received assurances from Macron that despite the political differences, Trump should visit.

"It was one of the most beautiful parades I've ever seen, and in fact we should do one here down Pennsylvania Avenue," said Trump.

He also clarified his relationship with Germany's Angela Merkel, saying "We get along very well."

The partnership with Germany has been strained in the first few months of Trump's presidency, but like with Macron, it appears that Berlin and Washington are starting to warm to each other.

While Trump appears to be warming to France and Germany, Britain seems to have been placed on the backburner.