ROME (AP) — King Charles III and Queen Camilla are currently on a state visit to Italy, which began with their meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. This marks King Charles's first overseas trip since his recent hospitalization, which was related to side effects from his ongoing cancer treatment.

The royal couple was ceremoniously escorted to the Quirinale Palace by mounted presidential guards, and they received a warm welcome from President Mattarella in the palace courtyard. The significance of their visit was highlighted by a spectacular aerial display, featuring a joint flyover of the Quirinale by Italy's air force aerobatic team, the Frecce Tricolori, and the RAF's Red Arrows, celebrating the strong ties between the two nations.

As part of their stay, President Mattarella is set to host a lavish state banquet for King Charles and Queen Camilla on Wednesday evening, which is particularly special as it coincides with the couple's 20th wedding anniversary. On the same day, King Charles is scheduled to meet with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and address a joint session of the Italian Parliament, marking a historic occasion as it will be the first instance of a British monarch addressing the Italian Parliament.

Throughout the visit, King Charles aims to emphasize the close relationships between Britain and Italy, especially amid the current geopolitical climate. Both countries, as NATO allies, are collaborating to strengthen support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. This visit serves as a testament to the robust bilateral relationship between the two nations.

In addition to their engagements in Rome, the royal couple's itinerary includes a side trip to Ravenna on Thursday, where they will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the city’s liberation by Allied forces during World War II. During their visit to Ravenna, King Charles and Queen Camilla will focus on celebrating the region's rich cuisine and will take the opportunity to meet local farmers who have been severely affected by recent floods.

The Royal Palace released a statement emphasizing that this visit will underscore the depth and breadth of the bilateral relationship between Britain and Italy. The events planned throughout their three-day visit aim not only to foster diplomatic ties but also to address pressing issues faced by the local communities in Italy.