WATCH: King Charles Addresses Congress 250 Years After America’s Independence

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th year of independence, King Charles III is addressing a joint session of Congress, the successor to the body that declared the nation’s founding. He is the great-great-great-great-grandson of King George III, who ruled over the American colonies prior to the Revolutionary War.

Earlier on Tuesday, when Charles and Camilla visited the White House, President Trump used the moment to reflect on the dramatic transformation of the U.S.-U.K. relationship from revolutionary adversaries to close allies.

“There, the direct descendant of King George III will speak to the direct successor of the very body that gathered in Independence Hall on July 4th, 1776,” Trump said. “If John Adams and George Washington or the King’s fifth great-grandfather could see that sight, they might be absolutely shocked, but probably only for a moment. Surely, they would be delighted that the wounds of war healed into the most cherished friendship.”

So far, the state visit has featured a blend of ceremony and diplomacy, beginning Monday when President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Charles and Camilla to the White House for tea and a tour of a newly installed beehive before the royals attended a large garden party at the British ambassador’s residence.

On Tuesday, the royals returned for a formal state arrival ceremony with military honors and remarks from President Trump, as well as a guest book signing, gift exchange, and a bilateral Oval Office meeting, while the First Lady and Queen Camilla hosted an educational event for students.