France, Dec. 3 -- The German president's visit will feature all the regal splendour expected of such an occasion- astate banquet at Windsor Castle and a rare address to both houses of parliament are on the agenda, signalling the importance London and Berlin now place on their rekindled partnership.

However, behind the pomp and ceremony lies a practical purpose, as Steinmeier will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer for talks centred on their countries' joint support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russia.

The war has become the key driver of British-German co-operation, bringing the two European powers closer than at any point in years.

Steinmeier's trip reciprocates King Charles III's own 2023 state visit to Germany ...