The United Kingdom is preparing to host a significant state visit this December, as King Charles and the royal family welcome the President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and Frau Büdenbender. The visit is scheduled from Wednesday, December 3rd, to Friday, December 5th. This event holds particular historical importance, marking the first time a German president has been hosted on a state visit in 27 years, and only the fifth such visit from Germany since 1958.

President Steinmeier is a familiar figure in the UK, having made several prior visits, including his attendance at Their Majesties' Coronation in May 2023. Following King Charles's Accession to the throne, he and Queen Camilla had an earlier meeting with President Steinmeier and the German First Lady. During that impactful visit, King Charles became the first British monarch to address the Bundestag, Germany's national parliament, where his call to "renew the pledge of friendship between our nations" was met with a standing ovation. The royal couple also attended a lavish state banquet hosted by President Steinmeier at Schloss Bellevue Palace in Berlin, a testament to the robust ties between the two countries. After that visit, the King and Queen publicly expressed their gratitude and fondness for Germany, describing the country as "so close to our hearts" and hoping for a swift return.

King Charles's connection to Germany predates his reign, with over forty visits made before ascending the throne. He reflected on these extensive engagements, stating that the number of visits underscored "the importance of this relationship" and highlighted his consistent observation of "the warmth of the friendship between our nations and by the vitality of our partnership in countless areas."

This upcoming German state visit represents the third official state visit hosted by the King and Queen this year. Previous state visits included those by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte in July, and former US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania in September. Although a detailed schedule for the three-day German visit has yet to be fully released by the Palace, it is anticipated to feature a ceremonial welcome, a grand state banquet held in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, and crucial meetings with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.