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Prince Charles visits Obama

London - Britain's Prince Charles has travelled to Washington to meet with US President Barack Obama.

Although the head of state is in one of the most pivotal moments of his presidency after Osama bin Laden was killed on May 1, he is still set to meet with the royal to talk about education, environmental sustainability and co-operation between UK and US forces.

Congratulations

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney told reporters that Obama is also likely to congratulate Charles on the marriage of his son Prince William to Catherine.

He said: "I'm sure he will congratulate him on his son's marriage. Beyond that, I'm sure they will discuss the very special relationship that the United States and the United Kingdom have. And he looks forward to the meeting and the visit."

After leaving for the American capital - on a private jet he borrowed from financier Joe Allbritton to save on costs -  Charles lent his support to wounded US service personnel at an event to celebrate the work of the British Forces Fund and America's United Service Organisations, which arrange morale-boosting entertainment for troops.

He said: "As far as I'm concerned, nothing is too good for our servicemen and servicewomen," before delighting crowds with his own rendition of a song from the Pirates of Penzance operetta, which he said he once performed in a school production.

Special relationship

Outlining the importance of the trip, a Clarence House spokesperson said: "The Government has asked the Prince of Wales to pay a visit to the United States. Needless to say our friendship with the United States is one of the most important - given the special relationship.

"And it's crucial that we sustain this relationship with regular high-profile visits that focus on a wide range of issues that reflect the full depth and breadth of our shared interests."

Before he returns to the UK on Thursday, Prince Charles will also present honours from Queen Elizabeth to Folger Shakespeare Library Director Gail Paster, Henry Becton, former president of Boston's WGBH public television station and educator Martin Lancaster.


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