This week, King Charles III of the United Kingdom made a state visit to Italy, representing a significant step forward in post-Brexit Britain, as London eyes up a new strategy towards the European Union.
Historic Speech to Italian Parliament
One of the highlights of the visit was King Charles III’s historic speech to a joint session of the Italian Parliament – ​​the first time a British monarch has addressed the body.
In his speech, the King highlighted the strong ties between the UK and Italy, noting their unity in supporting Ukraine in the conflict with Russia and joint defence projects, including cooperation with Japan under the Global Combat Air Programme.
He also noted the importance of defending democratic values ​​in the context of ongoing war in Europe, whilst speaking in Italian.
Meeting With the Prime Minister of Italy
During the visit, King Charles III met with the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, at the Villa Doria Pamphili.
The talks focused on strengthening cooperation in the areas of defence, sustainable development and cultural ties.
The meeting underlined the UK’s desire to strengthen bilateral relations with Italy and to find new formats for cooperation in the post-Brexit reality.
Strengthening Cultural and Historical Ties
The royal couple’s visit coincided with their 20th wedding anniversary, adding a special symbolism to the occasion.
Queen Camilla wore a dress by the same designer as her wedding dress, thus underlining the continuity and respect for tradition.
The gesture was warmly received in both the UK and Italy, highlighting the cultural ties between the two countries. ​
A New UK Strategy on the EU
King Charles III’s state visit to Italy is part of a wider UK strategy to strengthen ties with European countries after Brexit.
Using the monarchy’s soft power allows the UK to demonstrate its commitment to developing bilateral relations and to explore new avenues of cooperation in a variety of areas, including defence, culture, and the economy.
Royal Diplomacy in Britain
The visit of King Charles III to Italy has provoked a positive reaction in Italian political and cultural circles, highlighting the UK’s desire to strengthen bilateral relations with European countries after Brexit.
However, such initiatives are viewed with caution in Brussels as the EU aims to avoid spelling out special treatment between (non-)EU member states.
State visits are rarely seen between EU and non-EU member states, noticeably a joint address to a countries’ national parliament.
Such visits could signal the UK’s desire to renegotiate the terms of trade relations with the EU.
The possible conclusion of separate bilateral agreements between the UK and EU countries could complicate the Union’s overall position and require additional consultations to maintain the coherence of the EU’s foreign policy.
Economic Partnership at a New Level
The economic dimension of Charles III’s visit to Italy was an important element in strengthening bilateral ties.
During the meetings, possible investment agreements were discussed, especially in the field of sustainable development and “green technologies”, where the UK remains a leader.
Italy is interested in British developments of environmental technology, in addition expanding Italian export interests… particularly wine and fashion to high technology.
Trade revenue between the two countries amounted to more than £43 billion in 2023.
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also emphasises the importance of the visit for stimulating economic contacts.
Sustainability and Green Technologies
The UK and Italy are actively developing cooperation in the field of sustainable development, including projects in energy and clean technologies.
Joint initiatives can influence EU sustainability policies, stimulating the transition to more environmentally friendly and innovative solutions.
King Charles III’s state visit to Italy marks a significant shift in the UK’s approach to diplomacy post-Brexit, emphasising closer bilateral ties with the continent, through something textbook: British pageantry.
By focusing on defence, sustainable development, and cultural cooperation, the UK is using the soft power of its monarchy as a means of mending ties and seeking new deals with old friends.
While such initiatives are positive for bilateral relations, such visits could spell trouble for Brussels as Britain seeks a more positive course following it’s departure from the bloc.
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