King Charles' historic state visit to the United States is officially underway, with the monarch set to address Congress today. His address is likely to acknowledge tensions between US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who have clashed over the American leader's war against Iran.
Key Themes of the Address
During his remarks, the King will emphasize that the story of the UK and US relationship since the Revolutionary War is 'one of the greatest alliances in human history.' He will reflect that defending common ideals is 'crucial for liberty and equality,' as is the rule of law, which lies at the heart of both nations' democratic traditions and shared economic prosperity.
Charles is also expected to make a brief reference to the shooting at a Washington DC dinner attended by the president on Saturday night and offer 'the highest regard and friendship of the British people to the people of the United States' on the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Historic Occasion
This will be only the second time a British monarch has addressed a joint meeting of Congress, the first being Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. In a nod to recent tensions, which have seen Trump lambast Britain, Charles will reflect that while the UK and US have not always agreed on all matters over the past 250 years, the foundations of their 'democratic, legal and social traditions' remain strong.
He is also set to point out how the US and UK have stood together through moments that have defined their shared history and that 'our defence, intelligence and security ties are measured not in years but in decades.' Against the backdrop of global uncertainty and the challenge it poses, the King is expected to say that by defending and reaffirming these common values and ideals, both nations can promote security and prosperity, both now and in the future, for the benefit of the world.
Conclusion of the Speech
He is expected to conclude by noting that the story of both nations over the last 250 years is one of 'reconciliation and renewal,' giving rise to 'one of the greatest alliances in human history,' which he hoped would continue to safeguard their shared values long into the future. The speech, which is written on the advice of the Government, is expected to last 20 minutes.
Royal Visit Details
The address comes as the royal couple continue their four-day state visit to the US, where they will also be guests of honour at a White House banquet. Charles and Camilla are not able to meet victims and survivors of paedophile Jeffrey Epstein during their four-day visit due to ongoing legal cases, including the arrest of the King's brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
As his brother prepares to tour DC, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor was spotted looking serious as he drove in Sandringham in Norfolk yesterday. The former prince, who was wearing a green open-necked shirt, looked glum as he drove back to his new home at Marsh Farm in Wolferton after taking his dogs for a walk. He was accompanied by his security guard and one of his seven dogs in the passenger seat. Andrew is facing calls to testify for a congressional inquiry but has denied any wrongdoing from his links to Epstein.
