“From an American perspective, the term ‘special’ hardly captures the full essence,” Trump remarked about the bilateral ties.

The first day of Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK concludes with a banquet at Windsor Castle. Source: AAP / PA / Phil Noble

Trump’s speech will be music to the ears of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Trump openly expressed his pleasure at being the first US leader, and the first elected official, to receive two state visit invitations. “This stands as one of the most significant honors of my life,” he commented.

Donald Trump called the bond between the US and UK “priceless and eternal”. Source: AAP / AP / Yui Mok

Over the course of the visit, Starmer is hoping to convert Trump’s affection for Britain — his mother came from Scotland — and admiration for the royals into concrete actions.

“The UK was a partner in the inaugural trade agreement of your presidency, Mr. President, which spurred job creation and economic growth for both nations,” noted King Charles in his address. “We can undoubtedly achieve more as we embark on this new chapter in our partnership.”

How popular is Donald Trump in the UK?

Polls indicate Trump’s widespread unpopularity in the UK, and Starmer, tackling his own dipping approval ratings and financial challenges, must prove his royal connection can yield benefits.

Protesters in London demonstrated against Donald Trump’s visit to the UK. Source: AAP / EPA / Tolga Akmen

While there were many Trump supporters in crowds at Windsor in London, several thousand people marched to protest against the state visit.

“I quite simply dislike everything that Trump and his administration represent around the globe,” retiree Bryan Murray said.

Musician Billy Bragg performed at a protest. Source: AAP / PA / James Manning

Awkward questions about late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein might also come to the fore.

Last week saw Starmer dismiss Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to Washington due to connections with Epstein, potentially raising concerns for both the Prime Minister and Trump, given Trump’s own scrutiny regarding his relationship with the financier.

While the focus will turn to geopolitics and trade when Starmer hosts Trump at his Chequers country residence, Wednesday was all about ceremony.

Donald Trump (left) has been treated to a show of royal pageantry by King Charles and Queen Camilla. Source: AAP / AP / Kevin Lamarque

Trump and Melania joined Charles, his wife Queen Camilla and other royals and dignitaries for a carriage procession, with the route lined by 1,300 British service personnel.

There was a further military parade and a flypast by Britain’s Red Arrows aerobatics team.

The UK laid on what it said was the largest military ceremonial welcome for a state visit in living memory. Source: AAP / PA / Jordan Pettitt

The Trumps also found time for a private meeting with the king’s elder son Prince William and the heir’s wife Kate, which was described by the prince’s spokesperson as “warm and friendly”.