Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom is bustling with preparations for the unprecedented second state visit of the United States President Donald Trump this week, as reported by Epoch Times.
From a 50-meter long mahogany banquet table to ceremonial horse-drawn carriages and immaculate guards, the dazzling regalia and grand formalities of the British royal family are all on display to convey clear goodwill towards the American side and strengthen the UK-US relationship using the soft power of the monarchy, in line with the new government’s diplomatic rhythm.
In February of this year, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Washington shortly after Trump’s reelection for only five weeks to hand-deliver a state visit invitation letter personally signed by King Charles III of England. This marked the first time a British monarch used a personalized letter to extend an invitation for a state visit, as well as the first time the UK granted the same foreign head of state a second state visit while in office.
Upon their arrival in the UK on Tuesday, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are expected to be accompanied by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, touring the Windsor Estate in a carriage and receiving military honors along the way. Inside the castle, a military parade will be held with bands playing the national anthems of both countries, creating a magnificent spectacle.
Additionally, Trump will visit a specially curated exhibition showcasing the shared history between the UK and the US, tracing back to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215. This event aims to evoke a resonance in the legal and democratic traditions of both nations.
The highlight of the visit will be the state banquet held on Wednesday evening in St George’s Hall. Guests will be donned in white tie formalwear and exquisite evening gowns, adorned with shimmering jewels, dining together under the glow of antique candelabras.
The grand “Waterloo Table” in the banquet hall can accommodate 160 guests, taking five days to set up and is complemented by the “Grand Service,” a collection of over 4,000 pieces of gilded silver tableware dating back to the era of King George IV.
Royal historian Hugo Vickers told the American Press that this grand banquet will showcase the splendid traditions of the British royal family and create a friendly atmosphere for further negotiations between both parties.
The UK’s meticulous hospitality is aimed at paving the way for practical bilateral negotiations, including advancing trade deals, coordinating policies towards Russia, and supporting Ukraine. Following the state formalities, Trump and Starmer will meet at Chequers, the UK Prime Minister’s countryside retreat, on Thursday to further discuss relevant issues.
Trump previously received a state reception from the late Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in June 2019, attending a state banquet and military ceremonies. In 2018, he met with the Queen at Windsor Castle during a working visit. This week’s itinerary makes him the first US President to receive two state receptions from the UK.
(Adapted from reports by the Associated Press)