Washington: King Charles III delivered a sharp dose of humour during a White House state dinner, playfully telling Donald Trump that Americans “would be speaking French” if it were not for Britain’s historical role in North America.
The remark came as Charles responded to Trump’s earlier comments that without the United States, many European nations would be speaking German. Turning the line around, the British monarch said: “Dare I say that, if it wasn’t for us, you’d be speaking French.” The joke drew attention to the centuries-old rivalry between Britain and France in North America before American independence.
The exchange took place during a formal state dinner hosted at the White House on Tuesday night as Charles and Queen Camilla continued their four-day visit to the United States. The visit is aimed at reinforcing ties between London and Washington amid recent diplomatic strains.
Charles also made another light-hearted reference to recent White House renovations, noting t
he “readjustments” to the East Wing. He then joked that Britain had once made its own “real estate redevelopment” attempt in 1814, referring to the burning of the White House during the War of 1812.
Despite the banter, both leaders praised the enduring “special relationship” between the United Kingdom and the United States during their speeches, stressing cooperation on security and prosperity.
What was King Charles III served in dinner?
According to a report in NDTV, the dinner began with a Garden Vegetable Velouté, paired with a crisp Hearts of Palm salad. It was finished with toasted shallots and micro mint. A handcrafted Spring Herbed Ravioli, filled with creamy ricotta cheese and earthy morels, were also served. The dish incorporated herbs sourced directly from the White House Kitchen Garden.
The main course had a classic Dover Sole Meuniere. It was prepared with brown butter with the fish being served alongside potato pave, spring ramps, snow peas and parsley oil.
The dessert offered a beehive-shaped flourless chocolate gateau, Vanilla Bean Crémeux and Almond Joconde. It was accompanied by Crème Fraîche Ice Cream and White House Honey.
The wine selection for the evening focused on American labels. It had a 2024 Hopkins Riesling “Heritage,” a 2022 Penner-Ash Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley, and a 2022 Newton “Unfiltered” Chardonnay.