Her Majesty and The Duke of Edinburgh greeted their guests personally when they arrived, patiently waiting outside the Waterloo Chamber, where the pre-lunch reception was held.
First to arrive was Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein, soon followed by Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg.
The Grand Duke and Duchess were warmly greeted by the Queen and Duke with handshakes and double kisses - a display of affection that set the tone for many of the welcomes.
King Harald V of Norway kissed the Queens hand when he and his wife Queen Sonja met the monarch and she replied with a beaming smile.
Prince Albert II of Monaco was more formal with just a handshake while his wife Princess Charlene gave a low curtsey.
The most extravagant welcome came from Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, who flung open her arms as she approached the Queen before kissing her.
HM and HRH were accompanied at the lunch by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Henry of Wales and The Duke of York.
A British-inspired menu was prepared using many ingredients sourced locally, comprising,
- Tartlet of poached egg with English asparagus
- Windsor Lamb with braised potatoes, artichokes, peas, carrots, broad beans, cabbage, and a tomato and basil salad
- Kent strawberries and vanilla Charlotte
- Dessert
- Cheese
- His Imperial Majesty
- The Queen's Most Excellent Majesty
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