President Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden Thursday night are hosting a state dinner for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, continuing a tradition of elaborate state dinners for select foreign dignitaries.  The state dinner with America's oldest ally is the first state dinner of the Biden presidency. Asked why he picked France first, Mr. Biden said it's because he and Macron are friends. The two world leaders repeatedly emphasized Thursday the importance of that U.S.-France partnership on the national stage, as they work to defend democracy and freedom.  In a preview of the dinner earlier this week, the first lady said their meal will reflect that friendship. "It's an expression of welcome and friendship—a way to connect through a language that transcends words," she said. "And as each dish comes to the table, so too does the meaning behind it." The tables boast vivid red roses and blue delphiniums, along with white irises, the first lady said, noting th