by Hwang Yoonju
Published 29 Apr.2026 05:12(KST)
Updated 29 Apr.2026 08:16(KST)
U.S. President Donald Trump, who had previously expressed open dissatisfaction toward UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasized the close ties between the United States and the United Kingdom at the state welcome ceremony for King Charles III, who is on a state visit to the U.S. on April 28 (local time).
During his welcoming remarks at the White House, President Trump stated, "The intelligence, passion, and dedication of King Charles III have been a blessing not only to the United Kingdom but also to the cherished bond between the United States and the United Kingdom." He added, "I am confident that this relationship will continue for a long time to come."
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding after gaining independence from the United Kingdom. President Trump highlighted the historical ties between the two countries, emphasizing that the roots of America's forebears originated in the UK.
He said, "Even before we declared independence, Americans possessed within us the most precious gift-moral courage-which came from the small yet great kingdom across the sea."
He further stressed, "For centuries after we won our independence, there have been no closer friends to Americans than the British. We share the same roots, we speak the same language, and we pursue the same values."
Additionally, President Trump mentioned that a bust of former UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill is on display in the Oval Office, the president’s office at the White House. Winston Churchill symbolizes the joint front between the U.S. and the UK against Nazi Germany during World War II. This relationship continued after the war and became the foundation of the U.S.-UK strategic alliance.
After King Charles III and Queen Camilla departed, President Trump told reporters, "It was truly a wonderful meeting. The King is an exceptional person, and both of them are remarkable individuals. It was an honor to meet them."
President Trump had previously criticized the UK for not providing military support in reopening the Strait of Hormuz during the Iran war. Tensions between the two countries heightened after Prime Minister Starmer refused to allow the use of UK bases.
Regarding King Charles III’s state visit, The New York Times reported that the purpose is to celebrate the enduring bond between the United Kingdom and the United States, adding that this visit could be interpreted as an unofficial diplomatic mission by King Charles III.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.