King Charles III welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife with a state banquet at Windsor Castle on the first day of their state visit to the UK.

Around 160 guests gathered for the feast, held beneath a towering Christmas tree decorated with 3,000 lights.

The King praised the "special friendship that connects our countries" as he recalled his 2023 state visit to Germany and the "warmth" shown to him and Queen Camilla.

In his toast, President Steinmeier reflected on the UK-German relationship.

“We look back on 80 years of peace," he said. "It shows what is possible when people have the courage to pursue reconciliation."

The three-day tour will feature all the pomp and ceremony the UK rolls out for its honored guests.