King Charles III and Queen Camilla are on a four-day state visit to the United States, a trip many hope will bolster the weakening 'special relationship' between the two nations. The visit, which began on Monday, marks the King's first state visit to the US as monarch and the first by a British monarch since 2007, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Background and Security
The visit proceeded as planned despite a shooting at the White House correspondents' dinner on Saturday night. A suspect shot and injured a law enforcement officer before being detained. Buckingham Palace confirmed the visit would go ahead following discussions with the government, and UK Ambassador Christian Turner expressed confidence in security arrangements.
Tuesday: White House Ceremonies and Congress Address
On Tuesday, the King and Queen will participate in a traditional state arrival ceremony on the South Lawn at 10:35 a.m. local time, featuring a military ceremony with national anthems and a 21-gun salute. They will then sign the White House guest book and exchange gifts. The King will hold a bilateral meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office and address both houses of Congress. The day concludes with a state dinner in the East Room.
Wednesday: New York and 9/11 Memorial
On Wednesday, Charles and Camilla travel to New York to visit the 9/11 memorial, marking the approaching 25th anniversary of the attacks. They will meet first responders and families of victims. At the New York Public Library, the Queen will donate a specially made Roo toy to complete a set of Winnie-the-Pooh characters, replacing one lost in the 1930s.
Thursday: Virginia and Bermuda
On Thursday, the royals bid farewell to the Trumps and head to Virginia for community activities, including a celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence and meetings with indigenous communities on climate projects. The King will then visit Bermuda.
Monday's Activities
On Monday, Charles and Camilla were greeted by President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for private tea. They visited the White House beehives and attended a garden party at the UK ambassador's residence, where Camilla discussed combating child exploitation. The King spoke with Olympic diver Tom Daley about knitting.
