King Charles III is set to address a joint meeting of the US Congress on Tuesday, delivering a speech that highlights the enduring strength of the transatlantic relationship as one of "reconciliation and renewal." The monarch's remarks come amid recent tensions between the United Kingdom and the United States over the Iran war, which have strained relations between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Acknowledging Differences, Emphasizing Unity
While the UK and US have not always seen eye to eye, the King will underscore that their shared democratic, legal, and social traditions—dating back to the Magna Carta—have consistently enabled the two nations to come together. This speech marks only the second time a British monarch has addressed a joint meeting of Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
Solidarity After Gun Attack
In a show of solidarity, Charles is expected to reference the recent gun attack at a Washington dinner attended by President Trump on Saturday night. He will offer "the highest regard and friendship of the British people to the people of the United States" on the 250th anniversary of American independence.
State Visit Highlights
The King and Queen Camilla are in the midst of a four-day state visit to the US, which includes a White House banquet in their honor. The visit follows a warm welcome from the Trumps, including a visit to the White House beehive.
Shared History and Future Challenges
Charles will reflect on moments that have defined the shared history of the two countries, noting that their defence, intelligence, and security ties are measured in decades. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, he will assert that by reaffirming common values, both nations can promote security and prosperity for the future.
The King will also speak about his personal faith, expressing a belief in a "generosity of spirit" and a duty to foster compassion, peace, and mutual understanding. He will reference the importance of trade and technology deals for economic partnership, praise America's natural wonders, and stress the need to protect "nature's own economy."
Conclusion: A Legacy of Alliance
Concluding his 20-minute speech, Charles will describe the story of both nations over the past 250 years as one of "reconciliation and renewal," giving rise to "one of the greatest alliances in human history" that he hopes will continue to safeguard shared values.
