The King and Queen were officially welcomed to the United States with an unprecedented military ceremony on the lawns of the White House. Charles and Camilla observed the display alongside their hosts, US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, accompanied by a gathering of invited dignitaries and hundreds of spectators.
Arrival in Washington
The royal couple arrived in Washington on Monday for the start of a four-day state visit commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Shortly after their arrival, the King and the US president enjoyed tea with their wives at the White House. An image from the meeting captured the two men deeply engaged in conversation.
Diplomatic Context
The so-called special relationship between the UK and US has been tested in recent months, following a war of words between Mr Trump and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over the conflict in Iran. Officials in Downing Street are hopeful that the royal family’s soft power diplomacy can help mend the rift. Later, the King is set to address Congress, describing the story of the UK and US since America’s independence as “one of the greatest alliances in human history,” where the two nations consistently find ways to “come together.”
Ceremony Details
During the welcome ceremony, the King and Queen stood on a dais with the president and first lady as the UK and US national anthems were performed by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. Nearby, the Presidential Salute Battery fired a 21-gun salute in tribute to the royal guests.
