King Charles Welcomes German President Steinmeier to UK in First State Visit by Berlin in 27 Years
Historic royal reception at Windsor Castle underscores renewed UK–Germany cooperation amid shifting European security environment
The United Kingdom rolled out its grandest diplomatic welcome in nearly three decades on December 3, as King Charles III and Queen Camilla greeted German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Büdenbender at the start of a three-day state visit.
The visit marks the first time a German head of state has been accorded such honours in 27 years.
After landing at Heathrow Airport, the German dignitaries were met by the Prince and Princess of Wales, who escorted them to Windsor Castle.
There, mounted guards, a royal salute and a carriage procession through the historic grounds set the tone for a visit meant to reaffirm the deep bonds between the two nations after turbulent post-Brexit years.
Later on Wednesday, Steinmeier is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street for talks focused on security, Ukraine support and enhanced bilateral cooperation.
The evening will feature a traditional state banquet in Windsor’s St George’s Hall — a lavish event underscoring both ceremony and diplomacy.
Beyond pomp and pageantry, the state visit reflects a broader push to strengthen UK–Germany ties, especially in light of European security challenges and shifting global alliances.
The two nations have recently deepened collaboration through new treaties and shared commitments on defence, trade and migration.
During the visit, Steinmeier is expected to lay a wreath at Coventry Cathedral — the site of wartime bombing in World War II — symbolizing reconciliation and a mutual commitment to peace and remembrance.
He will also address British lawmakers, engage with business leaders and participate in cultural exchanges, highlighting shared values and forging a path forward for continued cooperation between London and Berlin.
The visit marks the first time a German head of state has been accorded such honours in 27 years.
After landing at Heathrow Airport, the German dignitaries were met by the Prince and Princess of Wales, who escorted them to Windsor Castle.
There, mounted guards, a royal salute and a carriage procession through the historic grounds set the tone for a visit meant to reaffirm the deep bonds between the two nations after turbulent post-Brexit years.
Later on Wednesday, Steinmeier is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street for talks focused on security, Ukraine support and enhanced bilateral cooperation.
The evening will feature a traditional state banquet in Windsor’s St George’s Hall — a lavish event underscoring both ceremony and diplomacy.
Beyond pomp and pageantry, the state visit reflects a broader push to strengthen UK–Germany ties, especially in light of European security challenges and shifting global alliances.
The two nations have recently deepened collaboration through new treaties and shared commitments on defence, trade and migration.
During the visit, Steinmeier is expected to lay a wreath at Coventry Cathedral — the site of wartime bombing in World War II — symbolizing reconciliation and a mutual commitment to peace and remembrance.
He will also address British lawmakers, engage with business leaders and participate in cultural exchanges, highlighting shared values and forging a path forward for continued cooperation between London and Berlin.
