In anticipation of US President Donald Trump's visit, the British royal family is busy with preparations, from Windsor Castle staff arranging a 50-meter mahogany table to polishing every horseshoe in the royal carriage team. The honor guard is also diligently rehearsing to ensure every step is perfect.

Throughout the halls and grounds of the castle, hundreds of workers are striving to ensure that King Charles III puts on a flawless performance this week as he welcomes President Trump for his second state visit to the UK.

Trump's welcome will include glittering decorations, royal bands, and a lavish banquet served with 200-year-old silverware. Trump and the first lady will also spend the night at Windsor Castle. These are the most elaborate displays of British pomp and ceremony, known as "crown diplomacy".

Martin Farr, an expert on modern British history at Newcastle University, believes this warm welcome will underscore the friendship, helping the parties "be more open to each other's proposals".

Six years ago, during Trump's first visit to the UK, London was seeking Washington's support as it prepared to leave the European Union. This time, the UK is lobbying for favorable trade terms and support in addressing the Ukraine crisis.

"A new term for Trump, and Britain has a new prime minister and government. London feels that the best way to connect with the US president is to impress him with royal elements," Farr said.

Then-Prince Charles and his wife with Donald and Melania Trump in London, UK, in 2019. Photo: Reuters

Then-Prince Charles and his wife with Donald and Melania Trump in London, UK, in 2019. Photo: Reuters

During her 7 decades on the throne, the late Queen Elizabeth II hosted numerous world leaders. The British royal family has also hosted 4 US presidents in recent times.

Just 5 weeks after Trump's second-term election, Prime Minister Keir Starmer traveled to Washington in February and invited the US leader for a state visit to the UK. This is the first time a world leader has made two state visits to the UK, and the first time the invitation was conveyed through a personal letter from the King, a fact Trump proudly boasted about to the media.

"This is a very great honor. It really means a lot," Trump said, praising King Charles III.

President Trump and First Lady Melania are scheduled to arrive in the UK late on 16/9, with the main events beginning the next day. After welcoming the Trumps, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will join them in a carriage procession through the Windsor estate, returning to the castle with soldiers standing at attention along the route.

Hundreds of soldiers will participate in the state welcome. The banquet will take place at the massive 50-meter Waterloo table, which can accommodate about 160 guests and takes 5 days to set. Trump will then meet with Prime Minister Starmer at Chequers, the British prime minister's country estate, on 18/9.

Ngoc Anh (According to AP, The Hill, Yahoo News)