King Charles III (74) gave a speech after his arrival in Berlin and a ceremony at the Brandenburg Gate in Bellevue Palace. In the official residence of the Federal President, the king spoke in German and English at the state banquet – and with a dose of self-mockery.

“I’ve found that I’ve actually been to Germany more than 40 times – this of course shows how important our relationships are to me, but also, I’m afraid, how long I’ve been around,” joked Charles in solid German. Charles assured that he had fond memories of each of these visits. Parts of the speech can also be seen on the Royal Family’s Instagram account.

Charles repeatedly stressed the importance of the relationship between Great Britain and Germany. He was impressed by “the warmth of friendship between our nations and the vitality of our partnership in countless areas.” This connection would also have been dear to his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022).

It continued: “It means so much to us that my wife and I were able to come to Germany for this first-ever foreign tour of my reign. I can only assure you that during the time allotted to me as King, I will do everything I can to strengthen the connections between to strengthen us.”

It is King Charles III’s first trip abroad. in his new role as monarch of the United Kingdom. Ex-Chancellor Angela Merkel (68), Robert Habeck (53) and singer Campino (60) were present at the state banquet.

Another speech by King Charles is eagerly awaited on March 30: The King will address the members of the German Bundestag. The special event is expected to start at 12 noon and will be broadcast live on www.bundestag.de and on ZDF.