'In so many ways... we're the closest of kin'

THE King hailed the “enduring bond”, “deep friendship” and “unparalleled partnership” of Britain and the US at last night’s white tie State Banquet held in Donald Trump’s honour.

- By Emily Ferguson

He spoke of a “new era” in the special relationship between the two nations in a short speech peppered with jokes, cultural references and personal flourishes.

On the first day of the president’s second such State Visit, the King said: “This unique and important occasion reflects the enduring bond between our two nations.

“Anchored by the deep friendship between our people, this relationship which, with good reason, we and our predecessors have long called ‘special’, has made us safer and stronger.”

Referring to next July’s 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, he continued: “It is remarkable how far we have come... The ocean may still divide us, but in so many other ways we are now the closest of kin.

“Today, our alliance spans every field of endeavour and shows vast potential for growth.

“The United Kingdom was your partner in the first trade deal of your administration, Mr President, bringing jobs and growth to both our countries. And no doubt we can go even further as we build this new era of our partnership.”