King Charles welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening for a glittering state banquet marking the first German state visit to the UK in 27 years.
More than 150 guests, including Claudia Schiffer, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, composer Hans Zimmer and violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, gathered in St George’s Hall, which was decorated for the season with a towering 20-foot Christmas tree.
In a speech addressed to Western allies, the King stressed the need to stand firmly with Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. President Steinmeier echoed the message, calling Germany «side by side in support of Ukraine.»
Senior royals including Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were in attendance. Catherine wore a tiara designed by Prince Albert, highlighting the historic cultural ties between the UK and Germany.
The evening featured a menu blending British and German influences, and a Black Forest–inspired cocktail. Earlier in the day, the King and President Steinmeier exchanged official gifts, while the German leader held talks with Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street.
The three-day state visit mixes diplomacy, pageantry and cultural outreach, underscoring efforts to strengthen UK-Germany relations in a new geopolitical landscape.
