Prince Charles to meet President Obama today

Although the head of state isin one of the most pivotal moments of his presidency after Osama Bin Laden waskilled on Sunday (01.04.11), he is still set to meet with the royal to talkabout education, environmental sustainability and co-operation between UK and USforces.White House Press Secretary Jay Carney told reporters thatObama is also likely to congratulate Charles on the marriage of his son PrinceWilliam to Princess Catherine on Friday (29.04.11).He said: "I'msure he will congratulate him on his son's marriage. Beyond that, I'm sure theywill discuss the very special relationship that the United States and the UnitedKingdom have. And he looks forward to the meeting and thevisit."After leaving for the American capital - on a private jet heborrowed from financier Joe Allbritton to save on costs - yesterday (03.04.11),Charles lent his support to wounded US service personnel at an event tocelebrate the work of the British Forces Fund and America's United ServiceOrganisations, which arrange morale-boosting entertainment fortroops.He said: "As far as I'm concerned, nothing is too good forour servicemen and servicewomen," before delighting crowds with his ownrendition of a song from the Pirates of Penzance operetta, which he said he onceperformed in a school production.Outlining the importance of thetrip, a Clarence House spokesman said: "The Government has asked the Prince ofWales to pay a visit to the United States. Needless to say our friendship withthe United States is one of the most important - given the specialrelationship.And it's crucial that we sustain this relationship withregular high-profile visits that focus on a wide range of issues that reflectthe full depth and breadth of our shared interests."Before hereturns to the UK tomorrow (05.05.11) Charles will also present honours fromQueen Elizabeth to Folger Shakespeare Library Director Gail Paster, HenryBecton, former president of Boston's WGBH public television station and educatorMartin Lancaster.