King Charles III is set to tell the US Congress that the relationship between the UK and the United States remains 'one of the greatest alliances in human history', as he highlights how the two nations have consistently found ways to 'come together'. The address, taking place today (April 28) on the second day of his state visit, will underline the strength of ties between the two countries despite recent political tensions.
Relations have been strained in part by disagreements between US President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the American leader’s actions in the Middle East. Addressing a joint meeting of Congress, Charles is set to emphasise the importance of defending shared ideals, including liberty, equality and the rule of law, which underpin both countries’ democratic systems and economic success. He will highlight how the UK and US have stood side by side during key moments in history, noting that their defence, intelligence and security ties span decades. The King will also acknowledge recent events in Washington, making a brief reference to a gun attack at a dinner attended by President Trump, and offering 'the highest regard and friendship of the British people to the people of the United States' as the country marks 250 years since its independence.
Historic Address
It will mark only the second time a British monarch has addressed a joint meeting of Congress, following a speech by Elizabeth II in 1991. Reflecting on occasional disagreements between the two nations, Charles will point to their shared 'democratic, legal and social traditions', tracing their origins back to the Magna Carta, and argue that these foundations have ensured continued cooperation.
Defence and Security Cooperation
He will also highlight the depth of defence and security cooperation, noting that ties between the two nations are 'measured not in years but in decades', and emphasise the importance of maintaining unity in a period of global uncertainty. The King is expected to say that by reaffirming their shared ideals, both countries can continue to promote security and prosperity worldwide. Drawing on his personal beliefs, he will also speak of a 'generosity of spirit' shared by both nations, and a duty to 'foster compassion, to promote peace, to deepen mutual understanding and to value people of all faiths and none'.
Economic and Environmental Themes
Economic cooperation is also set to feature in the address, with references to the importance of trade and technology partnerships, alongside a nod to America’s natural landscape and the need to protect 'nature’s own economy'. The speech is expected to conclude with a reflection on the past 250 years as a story of 'reconciliation and renewal', which has helped shape one of the world’s most enduring alliances.
The 20-minute address comes as the King and Queen continue their four-day state visit to the United States, which will include a state banquet at the White House. Earlier, the King attended a garden party in Washington hosted by the UK ambassador to the US, Sir Christian Turner, where he met guests including former Olympic diver Tom Daley. The pair discussed their shared interest in knitting, with Daley describing it as 'my outlet for all my creativity, my mindfulness and my meditation'.
Queen Camilla also attended the event, meeting representatives from charities tackling domestic abuse and child exploitation. She later admitted to feeling 'quite jet lagged' during engagements marking the upcoming anniversary of US independence. Among the guests were senior US political figures, including treasury secretary Scott Bessent, senator Ted Cruz, former House speaker Nancy Pelosi and current speaker Mike Johnson, as well as England footballer Esme Morgan.
The royal visit continues amid a backdrop of diplomatic sensitivity, with the King’s speech expected to reinforce longstanding ties while carefully acknowledging current challenges in the transatlantic relationship.
