King Charles III delivered a speech in German while attending a banquet in Berlin, his first state visit abroad since becoming monarch.
He gave the speech while attending a white-tie state banquet at Bellevue Palace, hosted by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
While addressing the dignitaries in attendance, he used the opportunity to praise the strong relationship the UK has with Germany, while expressing gratitude for the warmth and hospitality he had received during his visit.
The banquet was held on the first day of the three-day state visit to the country.
Among those in attendance, alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort, was the first lady Elke Büdenbender.
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Albert Nieboer/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images)Dignitaries from both Germany and the UK were also invited, including former Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.
Making his speech in German, the King said: “It is hard to know how to thank you enough for those tremendously kind words, and your unforgettable hospitality in such a festive setting.
“It is wonderful to be in such large company tonight and it is nice of you all, not to have left me alone with a ‘dinner for one’.
“My wife and I have been so deeply touched by the warmth extended to us in Germany. Just as we have on each of our previous visits to this very special country.
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Getty Images)“I have visited Germany more than 40 times, a sign naturally which of course shows how important our relationships are to me, but also, I fear, of just how long I have been around.
“And from each of these visits I have memories that are very special.
“I think, Mr President, of the particular kindness and friendship which you and Frau Budenbender showed to both my wife and myself on our last visits to Berlin in 2019 and 2020.”
He also went on to pay tribute to his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, stating that the bond between the UK and Germany "mattered greatly" to her, agreeing that it was also of great importance to him.
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POOL/AFP via Getty Images)The King added that "The connections between us will grow ever stronger," he said, citing the "cherished friendship" the nations share.
He also touched on how the two countries stand side-by-side in protecting "shared democratic values" and defending Ukraine from “unprovoked aggression”, and how they will continue to work together to overcome challenges, such as climate change.
The King also spoke about sustainability, environmental causes and relations between the nations following the UK’s departure from the EU.
