During a reception at the White House, the British King Charles III jokingly recalled that the British army burned down the official residence of American presidents as part of a “little attempt at beautification“.
The monarch took the floor after US President Donald Trump's welcoming speech and noted that one cannot help but notice that the East Wing of the White House was completely demolished to make way for the ballroom.
“It is a particular pleasure for me to return to this magnificent building, the heart of your democracy. On this occasion, Mr. President, I cannot help but notice the changes in the East Wing since your visit to Windsor Castle last year,” said Charles III, drawing laughter from the audience.
“I am sad to say that we British, of course, made our own small attempt at beautifying the White House complex in 1814,” he added.
In 1814, the British army captured Washington during the Anglo-American War (1812-1815) and completely burned the presidential residence.
Charles III arrived in the United States on a state visit on April 27. This is the first state visit by a British monarch to the United States since 2007. The king’s visit will last until April 30.