Germany's first couple line up UK state visit

THE King and Queen will host the German president for a three-day state visit in December, Buckingham Palace announced yesterday.

- By Emily Ferguson Royal Editor

Frank-Walter Steinmeier, joined by his wife, the First Lady of Germany, Elke Budenbender, will be welcomed with traditional pomp and pageantry. Charles and Camilla will host them at Windsor Castle from December 3 to 5. It is the first state visit by a German president for 27 years.

Friendship

The itinerary will be released nearer the time, but it is expected to include a carriage procession through the streets of Windsor, a ceremonial welcome, a glittering state banquet in St George's Hall and talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.