BBC News’ Thomas Mackintosh reported that US President Donald Trump is contemplating his second state visit to the UK, hinting that Buckingham Palace may have set a date for September. Trump mentioned being invited by the King and referred to the UK as a “great country” during a press briefing at the White House. This news follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s delivery of an invitation letter from King Charles to Trump back in February during a trip to Washington. Despite this, Buckingham Palace has not officially confirmed the proposed date for the state visit.
Back in 2019, during his first term in office, Trump was graciously welcomed by the late Queen Elizabeth II on a three-day state visit. It is not common for second-term US presidents to receive a state visit, usually being offered tea or lunch with the monarch at Windsor Castle instead. King Charles’ letter, however, suggested a meeting to discuss the details of the state visit at either Dumfries House or Balmoral, both located in Scotland, a place of significance to Trump due to his mother’s origins on the Hebridean island of Lewis.
The potential second state visit is not yet confirmed by Downing Street, but if it does take place, it could serve as a crucial opportunity to strengthen relations with the US amidst ongoing trade tensions. Starmer, who is actively pursuing a trade deal with the US and seeking to eliminate recently imposed tariffs on the UK, has dubbed the invitation for the second visit as “truly historic” and “unprecedented.” During Starmer’s visit to the White House in February, Trump showcased the contents of the King’s letter, emphasizing the importance of discussing options for the location and program content of the potential historic visit to the UK
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