Trump hails UK special relationship during historic state visit

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday hailed the “special relationship” between the US and the United Kingdom during his historic second state visit, describing it as one of the highest honours of his life.

The day was marked by unparalleled pomp and ceremony, as Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were treated to the full grandeur of British pageantry. The highlight came during a lavish banquet at Windsor Castle, the historic family home of British monarchs for nearly a millennium.

“The bond of kinship and identity between America and the United Kingdom is priceless and eternal. It’s irreplaceable and unbreakable,” Trump declared in a rousing speech.

Referring to the so-called “special relationship,” the president added, “Seen from American eyes, the word special does not begin to do it justice.”

The speech will surely resonate with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who extended the state visit invitation shortly after Trump’s return to office in January. Known for his anglophile leanings and admiration for the British monarchy, Trump’s visit is seen as a strategic opportunity for Starmer to strengthen economic ties, attract billions of dollars in investment, ease trade tariffs, and engage on international issues including Ukraine and Israel.

Britain rolled out the royal red carpet, offering Trump the most elaborate military ceremonial welcome in living memory for a foreign leader. The US president made no secret of his delight at becoming not only the first US leader but the first elected politician ever to be invited for two state visits.