AYLESBURY, England (AP) – Following a day of royal pageantry, President Donald Trump is set to meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, marking the final day of the U.S. leader's state visit to Britain. The two leaders are anticipated to sign a significant agreement focused on technology investment and will discuss pressing issues such as steel tariffs and the intricate concerns surrounding the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
On Wednesday, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. This reception was characterized by traditional British ceremonial elements including gold-trimmed carriages, soldiers dressed in scarlet uniforms, artillery salutes, and a grand banquet held in an opulently decorated hall. Notably, no U.S. president or other global leader has previously been honored with a second state visit to the U.K.
The grand farewell from the royals unfolded as King Charles and Queen Camilla bid goodbye to Trump at Windsor Castle. After their private exchange, Trump engaged in a brief conversation with the king, expressing admiration by calling Charles “a great gentleman, and a great king”. Their farewell included handshakes, after which Trump exited to his presidential limousine.
Meanwhile, Melania Trump seized the opportunity to spend additional time with Queen Camilla, as they planned a visit to Queen Mary’s Dolls' House, renowned as the largest and most famous dolls' house globally. Following this, they were scheduled to visit the Royal Library, where they are expected to meet local schoolchildren.
As part of customary gift-giving during state visits, Prime Minister Starmer presented the Trumps with symbolic offerings. He gifted Trump a custom-made red box, commonly used by government ministers, filled with official papers, symbolizing the enduring special relationship between their two countries. Additionally, Starmer included a picnic basket containing homemade jams and shortbread, sharing a taste of the English countryside with the visiting dignitaries.
First Lady Melania Trump received a colorful silk scarf adorned with art created by Ukrainian children, representing her efforts to raise awareness for their plight. She had previously delivered a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, appealing for consideration of children's welfare amidst discussions of a potential peace plan regarding Ukraine.
The final day of President Trump’s state visit shifts focus from ceremony to political dialogue as he meets with Prime Minister Starmer at Chequers, the prime minister’s residence. Their agenda highlights a prospective “tech prosperity deal” which aims to facilitate job creation and investment in artificial intelligence and nuclear energy sectors. Starmer is anticipated to navigate sensitive discussions relating to Ukraine and the Middle East during this summit, against a backdrop of domestic political challenges.
The previous evening, a lavish state banquet was held at St. George’s Hall in Windsor Castle, attended by approximately 160 guests, including prominent figures from the tech industry and political leaders. The event showcased the grandeur associated with royal receptions, complete with diners seated at a meticulously arranged table decorated with 1,462 pieces of silverware and surrounded by candlelight. The meticulously curated wine list featured notable selections, including Wiston Estate Cuvee 2016 and Pol Roger Extra Cuvee de Reserve 1998, to enhance the dining experience.
