British monarch highlights shared history, democratic values, and continued partnership during rare Capitol address.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
King Charles III delivered a formal address to the United States Congress on Tuesday, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence and reaffirming longstanding ties between the United States and the United Kingdom.
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The speech followed a White House meeting with Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump earlier in the day. The King’s appearance at the Capitol made him the second British monarch to address Congress, following Elizabeth II, who spoke to lawmakers in 1991.
Opening his remarks, the King thanked Americans for hosting him and Camilla during what he described as a historic commemoration. He also used humor to note he was not visiting as part of a “cunning rear guard action.”
The King acknowledged current global instability, referencing ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, as well as a recent attempted attack involving President Trump and administration officials. He said the timing of the address came during a period of “great uncertainty.”
Addressing the relationship between the two countries, the King said that despite disagreements, both nations remain aligned in key principles.
“Whatever our differences, whatever disagreements we may have, we stand united in our commitment to uphold democracy, to protect all our people from harm, and to salute the courage daily risk their lives in the service of our countries,” he said.
Reflecting on the historical depth of the relationship, the King emphasized that ties between the two nations extend beyond the founding of the United States.
“Standing here today, it is hard not to feel the weight of history on my shoulder, because the modern relationship between our two nations, and our own peoples, spans not merely 250 years, but over four centuries,” he said.
He also referenced his mother’s address decades earlier, noting the symbolic continuity of British representation before Congress.
“Speaking in this renowned chamber of debate and deliberation, I cannot help but think of my late mother Elizabeth, who in 1991 was also afforded this single honour,” he said, adding that he came to express “the highest regard and friendship of the British people to the people of the United States.”
The King described differences between the nations as part of a shared democratic tradition, stating that debate and disagreement often strengthen cooperation.
“Time and again, our two countries have always found a way to come together, and by jove, Mr Speaker, when we have found that way to agree, what great changes brought about,” he said.
Quoting remarks previously made by President Trump, the King said the relationship between the two countries is rooted in a lasting connection.
“The bond of kinship and identity between America is priceless and eternal, it is irreplacable and unbreakable,” he said.
He also referenced historical perspectives on transatlantic cooperation, including the concept of an Atlantic partnership between Europe and the United States, and stressed the continued importance of that framework.
“The challenges we face are too great for any one nation to bear alone,” the King said. “Ours is an indispensable partnership. We must not disregard everything that has sustained us for the last 80 years. Instead, we must build on it.”
The address concluded with a call to maintain and strengthen cooperation between the two nations as they confront evolving global challenges.
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