The Prince and Princess of Wales are poised to play significant roles during the state visit of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender this week. This marks the first visit by a German President to the UK in 27 years, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic occasion. The royal couple will officially greet the President and First Lady upon their arrival at Heathrow Airport on December 3, 2023, before accompanying them to Windsor Castle for a series of formal events.
The visit will commence with a warm welcome from King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. A ceremonial reception will include royal salutes at key locations such as the Tower of London and Home Park. Following the formal greetings, the royals and their distinguished guests will participate in a carriage procession to Windsor Castle. There, a ceremonial welcome featuring a Guard of Honour will take place in the castle’s Quadrangle.
After a luncheon hosted in the State Dining Room, where members of the royal family will join the guests, King Charles and Queen Camilla will invite President Steinmeier and Ms. Büdenbender to view a special exhibition of German-related items from the Royal Collection. This exhibition highlights the historical ties and cultural connections between the two nations.
President Steinmeier is scheduled to hold discussions with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at No.10 Downing Street, as well as meetings with business leaders from both the UK and Germany. Meanwhile, the First Lady will visit Judith Kerr Primary School in southeast London to engage with students and celebrate the school’s connection to the renowned German-born British author and illustrator.
The inaugural day of the state visit will conclude with a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle. This event will see the King and Queen joined by senior members of the royal family, all adhering to the traditional white-tie dress code. The Princess of Wales is expected to make a striking impression, potentially wearing a design by a German designer or a color from the German flag, following her previous successes at state banquets.
On December 4, 2023, President Steinmeier and Ms. Büdenbender will privately visit St George’s Chapel in Windsor to lay flowers on the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II. They will then return to Windsor Castle for a reception in collaboration with The Big Help Out, highlighting the positive impact of community volunteering. This engagement reflects the ongoing dialogue about social responsibility and community involvement shared by both nations.
The couple will also have the opportunity to view the State Sleigh, designed by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria, a nod to the historical ties that still influence royal traditions today. After their engagements on Thursday, the King and Queen will bid farewell to the German dignitaries, who will then pay their respects by laying a wreath at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior at Westminster Abbey.
The final day of the visit on December 5, 2023, includes a tour of Coventry Cathedral, where President Steinmeier will lay a wreath in the ruins, followed by a prayer service focusing on peace and reconciliation. The couple will also visit Siemens Healthineers and the University of Oxford before returning to Germany.
This state visit not only reinforces the diplomatic ties between the UK and Germany but also highlights the evolving role of the royal family in international relations. Prince William and Princess Kate’s involvement reflects their commitment to modernizing the monarchy and enhancing its global presence.
