More details have emerged about the upcoming state visit by King Charles to the United States, set to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain.
The US president, Donald Trump, said on Friday that he intends to cover a wide range of issues during discussions with the monarch, including Iran, NATO and the UK’s digital services tax. Speaking in a phone interview with Reuters, Mr Trump said: “I’m going to talk about everything. I’m going to talk about it. He’s a friend of mine, and he’s a great guy.”
The four-day visit will see the King travel to Virginia, New York and Washington DC. During the trip, he is expected to meet privately with Mr Trump and take part in a joint address before the US Congress.
King Charles US Itinerary: Virginia, New York And Washington DC Highlights
In addition to high-level meetings, the King will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the 9/11 memorial in New York. The event will be held alongside Zohran Mamdani, according to the New York mayor’s office.
The memorial commemorates the September 11, 2001 attacks on the Twin Towers. At least 2,606 people were killed when hijacked planes were flown into the World Trade Center by militants linked to al Qaeda. Among the victims were 67 Britons.
Joe Calvello, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office, confirmed that while the King and Mr Mamdani will attend the ceremony together, they will not hold a private meeting.
Trump, Starmer Tensions And UK Digital Services Tax Dispute
Mr Trump is also set to host a state banquet in honour of the King and Queen Camilla during the visit.
The trip comes at a time of strained relations between the US president and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, particularly over the Iran conflict and trade matters.
Mr Trump has warned that tariffs could be imposed on Britain if the UK does not remove its digital services tax.
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Introduced in 2020, the policy applies a 2% levy on the revenues of major technology companies. It targets firms generating more than £500m globally from digital activities, with over £25m coming from UK users.
Speaking to the BBC on Thursday, Mr Trump suggested the King could play a role in improving ties between the two countries. “I know him well, I’ve known him for years. He’s a brave man, and he’s a great man. They would absolutely be a positive,” he said.
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