Asia-Pacific

Obamas to meet the royal couple on UK state visit

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-05-24 16:30

LONDON - US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle will meet with Prince William and the former Kate Middleton on Tuesday during their state visit to Britain, Buckingham Palace said.

US President Barack Obama gestures as he stands with first lady Michelle Obama after giving his speech at College Green in Dublin May 23, 2011. Obama is on a four-nation tour of Europe, which includes Britain, France and Poland. [Photo/Agencies]

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A palace official, speaking in condition of anonymity in line with palace policy, says the Obamas will meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in an informal setting just before the official welcome from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

The royal couple, who have recently returned from the Seychelles after a 10-day honeymoon, were not originally on the president's schedule.

The president and his wife did not attend the recent royal wedding, so the visit will give them an opportunity to congratulate the couple in person.

The Obamas arrived in Britain late Monday - only the third state visit by a US president to the Britain in 100 years. His trip comes as Britain and America on issues cooperate closely on issues ranging from Libya to Afghanistan, counter-terrorism and the Middle East peace process.