Senior members of the British royal family could be headed to the United States as soon as 2026 to help strengthen the “special relationship” between the U.K. and the U.S. — and to capitalize on Donald Trump’s “clear affinity for the royal family.

“Donald Trump has a clear affinity for the royal family,” A senior UK government source told The Times. “He had a great relationship with the late Queen, recently met Prince William and has spoken highly of King Charles. A royal tour to the US would help reinforce the ‘special relationship’.”

The King has sent a personal message of congratulations to Donald Trump on his inauguration, reflecting on the enduring special relationship between the UK and US, Buckingham Palace said. Charles’s private written words were delivered to mark Mr Trump being sworn into office as US president for a second time.

The British royal family has historically played a vital role in strengthening ties between the United States and United Kingdom, keeping the so-called “special relationship” between the two countries alive.

The United States is expected to host the senior royals as plans for a tour are underway. The countries are known for their close-knit alliance in recent decades