The Prince and Princess of Wales are set to play a pivotal part in a major diplomatic event this week, as King Charles III prepares to host the German president for a historic state visit. The three-day trip, beginning on Wednesday, marks the first time a German head of state has been received on such terms in 27 years.
A Royal Welcome for Germany's President
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Budenbender, will be formally greeted at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday by Prince William and Princess Catherine, who are acting on behalf of the monarch. The royal couple will then accompany the German guests to Windsor.
Upon arrival at the historic castle, the president will enjoy a carriage procession through the town before a ceremonial welcome in the castle quadrangle. This event will be attended by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales. The first day will culminate in a grand state banquet held in the magnificent St George's Hall within Windsor Castle.
A Schedule Steeped in Symbolism and Substance
The visit is laden with both symbolic gestures and substantive engagements. On Thursday morning, President Steinmeier will pay a private tribute at the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II in St George's Chapel. Later, he will join the King and Queen for a 'Big Help Out' reception, highlighting the value of community volunteering.
Beyond the royal itinerary, the German leader's schedule includes high-level political and economic discussions. He is due to hold talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street and meet with UK and German business leaders. President Steinmeier will also deliver an address to Parliament.
Poignant Remembrance and Historical Context
A particularly moving moment is planned for Friday, when the president and his wife, accompanied by the Duke of Kent, will lay a wreath at the ruins of Coventry Cathedral. The cathedral was destroyed by German bombing during the Second World War's Coventry Blitz, which occurred 85 years ago in November 1940 and resulted in significant loss of life and destruction.
This state visit is only the fifth from Germany since 1958 and represents King Charles's third inward state visit this year, following the visits of French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Donald Trump. The King, who has German ancestry and speaks the language well, last hosted President Steinmeier at his Coronation in May 2023.
