King Charles III and Queen Camilla concluded a diplomatically significant first day of their US state visit by hosting a garden party at the British Embassy in Washington, DC.

Strengthening Transatlantic Relations

The event brought together British and American dignitaries, including politicians, charity leaders, and sports stars, as the monarchs sought to reinforce the transatlantic relationship. The royal couple also participated in a time capsule ceremony commemorating America’s 250th anniversary and met with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House.

Arrival and White House Visit

The royal couple arrived at Joint Base Andrews, where they were welcomed with gifts and a military band. After a formal welcome including national anthems, King Charles III and Queen Camilla were driven to the White House to meet with President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.

During their visit to the White House, the royals enjoyed tea in the Green Room and were shown a newly expanded beehive designed in the shape of a miniature White House.

Garden Party Highlights

The garden party at the British Embassy featured traditional fare, including 3,000 handmade sandwiches with fillings such as Scottish smoked salmon, roast beef, egg mayonnaise, and cucumber. Notable attendees included Olympic diver Tom Daley, who discussed his advocacy for knitting with the King, and football star Esme Morgan.

Notable Guests

Political figures in attendance included Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Senator Ted Cruz, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and current Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. The King also engaged in conversations with White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller and British Ambassador to the US Christian Turner.

Time Capsule Ceremony

Before the garden party, the King and Queen participated in a ceremony to place items in a time capsule commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. The capsule, to be buried under the Washington Monument, contains a commemorative coin, a proclamation from the King, and essays by schoolchildren. A twinned capsule was placed in London last June.

The King’s visit, a four-day tour, is seen as crucial for reinforcing the ‘special relationship’ between the UK and the US, particularly as relations have faced recent challenges.