King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in the US on 27/4, commencing a four-day state visit. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania welcomed the royal couple, hosting them for tea at the White House.

The Trumps later guided King Charles and Queen Camilla through the White House garden, showcasing a new beehive. Last week, Melania announced an expansion of the White House beekeeping program, featuring a hive uniquely crafted to resemble the building's distinctive shape.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit the beehive in the White House garden. Video: X/Margo Martin

This new hive complements two existing bee colonies established on the South Lawn in 2009. During peak summer, these colonies can number up to 70,000 bees, yielding approximately 90-102 liters of honey annually.

The White House uses this honey for events, including receptions and diplomatic gifts. A portion is also donated to local food support organizations. State guests to the US receive a jar of White House honey.

King Charles III (left), Queen Camilla, First Lady Melania, and President Trump attend a tea at the White House on 27/4. Photo: AFP

President Trump and First Lady Melania hosted King Charles III and Queen Camilla just two days after a shooting at a party attended by President Trump in Washington D.C. President Trump also showed the British monarch a painting depicting the failed assassination attempt on him in 2024.

King Charles III is scheduled to address the US Congress on 28/4. He aims to mend transatlantic rifts concerning the Middle East conflict, stemming from London's refusal to support Washington.

King Charles is also expected to deliver a brief speech at the state dinner at the White House that evening. He will travel to New York on 29/4 to visit the memorial for victims of the 11/9/2001 terrorist attack.

Honey display area in the White House garden. Photo: AFP

President Trump has repeatedly criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his stance on the Middle East conflict and the UK government's immigration and energy policies. Despite his public opposition to the conflict, Prime Minister Starmer supports King Charles III's state visit to the US.

By Huyen Le (AFP, GB News)