![U.S. and British flags are installed along a street in Washington on April 25 (local time) to mark King Charles III’s visit to the United States. [Photo=AFP/Yonhap]](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2026/04/28/20260428103025208993.jpg)
As Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in Washington on April 27 (local time) for a state visit, the U.S. and British governments rolled out a series of soft-power gestures highlighting the closeness of the two allies, despite friction over issues including the Iran war.
One of the most eye-catching moves came from the White House, which last week installed a new beehive built as a miniature of the White House mansion. In a social media post on April 24, the White House said the hive was made by a local artisan and that two additional colonies would be added to the two already on site. Beekeeping at the White House began during President Barack Obama’s administration. The New York Times reported that the Obama White House kept up to 70,000 bees in summer and produced 225 pounds (102 kilograms) of honey a year. The new White House-shaped hive, led by first lady Melania Trump, is expected to produce even more honey.
The White House-themed hive also reflects the British royal family’s long-standing interest in beekeeping. Charles operates four apiaries at Buckingham Palace and at his residence, Clarence House. Honey produced there is sold, with proceeds used for charity. Camilla is a patron of “Bees for Development,” a civic group that supports bee ecosystems worldwide.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, is also known to keep bees and harvest honey. Luxury magazine Town & Country reported that during President Donald Trump’s state visit to Britain in September last year, Catherine brought sandwiches to an event encouraging local Scouts ages 4 to 5, and her honey was used. Meghan Markle, an actress and Charles’ second daughter-in-law, also has a private apiary in California, though she is no longer connected to the royal family.
Britain also prepared symbolic touches. Upon arrival, Camilla wore a pink Dior coat dress and a brooch on her left chest showing the U.S. and British flags together. The brooch was a gift from then-New York City Mayor Robert Wagner to Queen Elizabeth II during her 1957 state visit to the United States. Fashion magazine Marie Claire reported it is set with rubies, emeralds and diamonds on a platinum base. The U.S. side also installed large numbers of British flags around the White House.
After a White House welcome ceremony, photos and tea, the two leaders attended a garden party at the British ambassador’s residence in Washington later that afternoon. CNN reported the embassy served traditional British foods including Scottish smoked salmon, British roast beef, cucumber sandwiches and scones.
In an interview with The Guardian, former White House press secretary Sean Spicer said, “Many Americans are proud of their roots and relationship” with Britain, adding that Americans have long felt affection for the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth, King Charles and Diana, the late Princess of Wales.
Charles is scheduled to address members of the U.S. House and Senate on April 28. The New York Times reported he is expected to argue that Britain and the United States have differed at times but have always found a path to unity, emphasizing “reconciliation and a new start.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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