London
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Büdenbender, arrived in the United Kingdom today for a historic three-day state visit, the first by a German head of state in 27 years. The presidential plane touched down at London’s Heathrow Airport, where they were greeted by Prince William and Princess Kate in full ceremonial honours.
From Heathrow, the delegation traveled to Windsor Castle, where King Charles III and Queen Camilla awaited them for a grand ceremonial welcome. The arrival featured a 41-gun salute, a Guard of Honour, and a carriage procession through the streets of Windsor. Inside the castle, the national anthems of Germany and the United Kingdom were played, and the royals hosted a glittering state banquet attended by political leaders and dignitaries.
The visit underscores the strengthening of UK-Germany ties in the post-Brexit era, following the signing of the Kensington Treaty in July 2025. The agreement sets the framework for enhanced cooperation on trade, security, migration, and defence. President Steinmeier is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street to discuss support for Ukraine, tackling irregular migration, and economic collaboration.
Beyond diplomatic talks, the visit includes symbolic gestures of reconciliation and shared history. President Steinmeier is expected to visit the ruins of Coventry’s bombed cathedral, highlighting a commitment to peace and mutual understanding.
In his address at the state banquet, King Charles emphasized unity and shared responsibility in Europe, stating, “Britain and Germany stand shoulder to shoulder guided not only by technology and science, but by conscience.” President Steinmeier echoed this sentiment, expressing hope for a “free, peaceful Europe… side by side.”
The three-day visit combines ceremonial grandeur with strategic diplomacy, signaling a renewed era of cooperation between the United Kingdom and Germany, and reinforcing the importance of strong European partnerships in the global arena.
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