ROME - King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Rome to begin their state visit to Italy, which will see a mix of soft-power diplomacy, greeting the crowds and also romance, as the trip coincides with the couple's 20th wed-ding anniversary.
They flew into Ciampino airport, stepping out into late afternoon sunshine, with Italian government officials and a guard of honour to greet them. The UK's ambassador to Italy, Lord Llewellyn, part of the welcoming party, said that this was an "historic" moment and such visits had an "intangible but priceless" impact.
Against a backdrop of international uncertainty, the visit is part of the UK's post-Brexit "reset" in reinforcing links with European allies. "This state visit comes at a key moment," said Lord Llewellyn, "as we reset our relations with our European partners". There had already been reports of "royal fever" and the Italian public valued the King and Queen's enthusiasm for their history, culture and cooking, said Lord Llewellyn, speaking to reporters ahead of the visit. "Their love for Italy... and all things Italian resonate deeply here," said the ambassador, predicting a warm welcome ahead of the trip to Rome and the historic city of Ravenna.
The state visit was originally intended to include the Vatican, where the King had been due to attend events including a service in the Sistine Chapel, but that had been postponed because of the ill-health of Pope Francis. The Pope seems to be recovering, appearing in St Peter's Square at the weekend, but so far there are no plans for a private meeting, although there has been speculation it might be something that would appeal to both sides if possible. State visits, carried out on behalf of the UK government, are an eclectic mix of elaborate ceremony, charming the crowds, flying the flag for business, trying local food and addressing serious international diplomacy. It will be pizza, pasta and policy.
The visit comes at a time of economic and diplomatic upheaval from US President Donald Trump - and accompanying the King is the UK's Foreign Secretary David Lammy. There will be an emphasis on the UK's closer military ties with Italy, which Lord Llewellyn said was "vital in a changing Europe, as both our countries stand steadfast in our support for Ukraine". (BBC/Reuters)
