King Charles and Queen Camilla have started a four-day state visit to the United States. It is the first official visit by the British monarch since Queen Elizabeth II visited in 2007. The royal couple arrived at Andrews Military Airbase in Maryland.
Officials, including US protocol staff and the British ambassador, welcomed them. Two children gave them flowers on the runway. A band played the national anthems of both the UK and the US. Security around the visit is very strict. This is because of the recent shooting incident in Washington DC at an event attended by President Donald Trump.
After landing, King Charles and Queen Camilla went to the White House. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed them. They met on the South Portico while the building was under renovation work. Later, they had tea in one of the rooms and visited a garden area. They noticed a recently constructed beehive there that resembled a miniature White House. The King, who is known for his interest in beekeeping, showed interest in it.
The visit marks a significant milestone in UK-US relations. It comes during a year when the United States is marking 250 years since independence. The trip is also meant to strengthen ties between the two countries. Queen Camilla wore a special brooch that shows both the British and American flags. It is a historic piece once given to Queen Elizabeth II during a past US visit in the 1950s.
Later, the king and queen attended a crowded garden party at the UK embassy in Washington DC. More than 600 guests were invited. The crowd included politicians, scientists, military staff, and charity workers. Some well-known figures such as Nancy Pelosi, Ted Cruz, and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper were present. Food served at the event also carried symbolic meaning. Beef sandwiches were made using British meat from a recent trade agreement that removed tariffs.
During the visit, Queen Camilla spoke with campaigners working against domestic abuse. She listened to their experiences and discussed their work. Some campaigners said it was important that such issues were being highlighted by a senior royal figure. There have also been public calls for the royal couple to meet survivors connected to Jeffrey Epstein. However, such a meeting has not taken place due to legal concerns.
King Charles is expected to give a major speech at the US Congress. He will be the first monarch to do so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. In his address, he is expected to speak about unity, democracy, and the importance of cooperation between nations. He will also highlight support for NATO, Ukraine, and shared values such as freedom and equality.
The king is expected to say that even when the UK and US disagree, they have always managed to stay close allies. He will also call for stronger cooperation in a time of global challenges. President Donald Trump is also expected to speak at a state dinner later at the White House. The dinner will be held at the White House. The event will bring together political leaders and public figures from both countries. The event marks a decisive moment in the visit.
