Kate Middleton and Prince William Host German President for State Visit in the U.K.

Kate Middleton and Prince William warmly received German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Bdenbender for a state visit to the United Kingdom. The royal couple greeted them at Londons Heathrow Airport before accompanying them to Windsor Castle for meetings with King Charles and Queen Camilla.

This visit is notable as the first official state visit to the U.K. by a president of the Federal Republic of Germany in 27 years. Continuing a recent tradition, the Prince and Princess of Wales are increasingly taking the lead role in welcoming foreign dignitaries, highlighting their senior position within the royal family.

On arrival, the couple shared handshakes and smiles with the visiting president and first lady. Kate Middleton showcased British fashion, wearing a Burberry dress, a blue coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, and earrings that once belonged to Princess Diana. The royal pair has acted as hosts for multiple state visits this year, including trips by French President Emmanuel Macron and President Donald Trump.

Following the airport welcome, the German president and first lady traveled to Windsor, where they were formally received by King Charles and Queen Camilla. A royal salute was fired at Windsors Home Park and the Tower of London. A carriage procession brought the visitors to Windsor Castle, where a Guard of Honour played the German and British national anthems before President Steinmeier inspected the troops alongside King Charles. Members of the royal family then joined them for lunch in the castles Green Drawing Room, followed by a viewing of a special exhibition from the Royal Collection connected to Germany.

In the afternoon, President Steinmeier met with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other leaders at 10 Downing Street, while the first lady visited Judith Kerr Primary School in southeast London, celebrating the German-born British author and illustrator.

The day concluded with a state banquet at Windsor Castle hosted by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the royal family. Both King Charles and President Steinmeier delivered remarks during the evening event.

While this marks Steinmeiers first official state visit, he has previously visited London in an official capacity, attending the Remembrance Day service in 2018. On that occasion, he became the first German leader to lay a wreath at the Cenotaph and attend the service at Westminster Abbey, commemorating the centennial of the end of World War I.

Author: Olivia Parker