King Charles III has officially welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Windsor Castle, commencing a historic state visit to the United Kingdom. This marks the first official state visit by a German head of state in 27 years, signalling a renewed commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
A Ceremonial Welcome at Windsor
The German president, accompanied by his wife Elke Budenbender, was greeted by King Charles and Queen Camilla outside Windsor and Eton Riverside station. Against the iconic backdrop of Windsor Castle, the monarch opened his arms in a warm welcome, to which President Steinmeier responded, "It's so wonderful, Your Majesty, to see you again."
The streets of Windsor were adorned with both German flags and Union Jacks for the occasion. Following the initial meeting, the two couples embarked on a carriage procession to the castle grounds for a formal ceremonial welcome.
Strengthening Economic and Diplomatic Bonds
The visit is underpinned by significant diplomatic and economic developments. Later on Wednesday, President Steinmeier is scheduled to join Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for a roundtable discussion with business leaders from both countries.
This engagement coincides with the announcement of a major £20 million electric vehicle (EV) project led by the German automotive giant Mercedes. The initiative is expected to create an initial 150 jobs in Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire, showcasing tangible economic cooperation.
The visit builds upon the Kensington Treaty, a new UK-Germany partnership signed in July. At its signing, Sir Keir Starmer emphasised that the two nations would "work ever more closely" together.
State Banquet and Parliamentary Address
A grand state banquet will be held in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening for approximately 160 guests. The hall will feature a Christmas tree decorated with 3,000 lights for the event.
The itinerary for Thursday includes a solemn moment where President Steinmeier will pay his respects at the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II in St George's Chapel. He is then due to address the UK Parliament later in the day, a key diplomatic engagement.
This historic state visit, the first of its kind since 1998, represents a significant moment for post-Brexit Britain's European relationships and highlights a shared focus on future-oriented cooperation in business and green technology.
