King Charles III commemorates 9/11 victims and engages with Congress during US state visit
The four-day trip, timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, includes a speech before Congress and a state dinner with the Trump administration.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla have paid tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks during their visit to New York City. The royal couple laid a bouquet of white lilacs, daffodils, and peonies at the 9/11 Memorial in lower Manhattan, the site where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. A note accompanying the flowers expressed enduring solidarity with the American people in the face of profound loss.
Following the memorial service, the King and Queen met with relatives of victims and first responders. Anthoula Katsimatides, whose brother died at the World Trade Center, described the interaction as sweet, noting that she was allowed to hug the Queen and found both the King and Queen endearing. The royal couple also briefly spoke with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the ceremony.
The itinerary included a tour of the Harlem Grown urban farming initiative, where the King engaged with primary school children. During the visit to the after-school program, which works with young people affected by food insecurity, Charles planted lavender and mustard seeds and fed chickens while chatting with the students.
The four-day state visit to the United States coincides with the 250th anniversary of America's declaration of independence from British rule. Prior to the New York events, the King and Queen joined President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for tea at the White House on Monday.
On Tuesday, King Charles delivered a rare speech before the US Congress, focusing on strengthening the longstanding friendship between the UK and the US. He also argued for a strong NATO and assistance for Ukraine. This was followed by a formal state dinner at the White House attended by the President and First Lady.
In remarks following the King's address, President Trump stated that Charles III "would have probably helped" the United States in its military offensive against Iran if the decision were up to him. This comment contrasts with the current UK government stance, as the President has previously criticised the United Kingdom for not joining strikes against Iran and has described Prime Minister Keir Starmer as weak and indecisive.
The royal couple is expected to conclude their visit by returning to the White House on Thursday for a formal farewell from President Trump.
