Get ready for a royal affair! King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to host their third state visit of 2025, capping off an eventful year of international diplomacy. Their Majesties will extend their hospitality to Germany's President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Frau Elke Büdenbender, for a three-day visit from December 3rd to 5th. This visit holds a special significance as it marks the first inward state visit by a German President in nearly three decades, a rare occurrence since 1958.
But here's where it gets interesting: this will be the fifth state visit by a German President, with the last one taking place in 2023, just a year after King Charles ascended to the throne. It's a busy schedule for the royal couple, as they will also undertake an official trip to the Holy See in October to join Pope Leo XIV in celebrating the 2025 jubilee year.
In addition to these state visits, the British royals traditionally host the annual diplomatic reception in December, where they mix and mingle with around 900 diplomats in a white-tie affair. Last year's reception was a memorable one, as the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, was notably absent while recovering from cancer treatment.
The state visits in 2025 have been a series of grand affairs. Earlier this year, the King and Queen hosted French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, at Windsor Castle. The Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the Macrons upon their arrival, and the warm rapport between Charles and Macron was evident during their speeches at the evening banquet.
Windsor Castle also played host to US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump in September. Prince William and Kate were on hand to welcome the Trumps, but this visit was more low-key, with no public appearances.
During the state banquet, President Trump, seated between the King and the Princess of Wales, described Charles as a "very, very special man" and praised Kate's beauty.
So, what do you think of these state visits and the royal couple's diplomatic duties? Do you find these events fascinating, or do you have a different perspective? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
