— Washington The White House reported that President Biden spoke with King Charles III on Wednesday, their first conversation since the death of Queen Elizabeth II last week.
In the call, according to a White House account, the president extended his sympathies to the new monarch and “stated his desire to continue a close relationship with the king.”
The White House stated, “The president fondly recalls the Queen’s generosity and hospitality, notably when she welcomed him and the First Lady at Windsor Castle in June.” “He also conveyed the admiration of the American people for the Queen, whose dignity and steadfastness have strengthened the enduring friendship and unique connection between the United States and the United Kingdom.”
The call occurred as Elizabeth’s coffin was being transported from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall, where she would lie in state for four days until her funeral on Monday. The most senior members of the royal family, including her children, the king, Princess Anne, Prince Edward, and Prince Andrew, participated in the approximately 40-minute walk to Westminster Hall. Behind the four were William, Prince of Wales, and Harry, Duke of Sussex.
Mr. Biden and the first lady, Dr. Jill Biden, are preparing to join other international leaders in London for the state funeral of the queen.