In announcing the deal on Wednesday, Mr. Biden said it was meant to reinforce alliances and update them as strategic priorities shift. © Doug Mills/The New York Times Mr. Macron and Mr. Biden sharing a handshake during the Group of 7 summit in Britain this year. His comparison of Mr. Biden to Mr. Trump appeared certain to be taken in the White House as a serious insult. In his comments on Wednesday, Mr. Biden called France a key ally with an important presence in the Indo-Pacific. Mr. Johnson has sought to portray himself as loyal partner to Mr. Biden on issues like China and climate change.