French President Emmanuel Macron tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), his office announced on Thursday morning.

As per the Elysee palace, the President was tested after showing early symptoms.

Macron will now isolate for seven days but will continue to work and carry out his activities remotely.

The brief statement did not give details of the symptoms the French president was experiencing.

"He will continue to work and take care of his activities at a distance," it added.

Macron’s visit to Lebanon next week has now been cancelled, the palace said.

Macron's office is currently in the process of identifying those he may have contacted to inform them of the situation, his office said. French Prime Minister Jean Castex will also self-isolate after being in contact with Macron.

He is the most recent world leader to have infected from the deadly virus. Previously, US President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Brazil's president Jair Bolsonaro and others tested positive for the global pandemic.

France has switched from a strict lockdown to a curfew this week and will be easing restrictions further for the Christmas holidays.