Dutch king and queen visit Philadelphia, meet students at Kensington CAPA High School

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The king and queen of the Netherlands began a three-day diplomatic visit to the United States on Monday with a stop in Philadelphia, where they toured historic sites and spent time with students at Kensington Creative and Performing Arts High School.

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima arrived at Independence Hall alongside Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and first lady Lori Shapiro. The visit marked the start of a trip aimed at strengthening ties between the United States and the Netherlands.

"It means a lot to us to be visiting the United States in the year you celebrate your 250th anniversary, and where better to start than here in Philadelphia," King Willem-Alexander said.

Shapiro noted the longstanding relationship between the two nations.

"The Dutch supported America's fight for independence. It was the second country to formally recognize the new United States," he said.

After touring Independence Hall and viewing the Liberty Bell, the royal couple shifted their focus to the city's young artists and performers. Students at Kensington CAPA greeted them with a song and presented original artwork before performing a dance routine.

"It was like really nervous because I was right in their ear," said 12th grader Jaaniyah Ford.

The king and queen posed for photos with Mayor Cherelle Parker and shared lighthearted moments with students, including a laugh over accents.

"She was like, ' What's my accent?' I was like, 'It kind of gives British.' And the majesty was like, 'Well, I've never heard that before!'" one student said.

For many at the school, the visit offered a rare cultural exchange.

"It's definitely a proud experience that I can move forward on," said senior Zaakira Mason.

Principal Patricia McDermott said she hoped the encounter broadened students' perspectives.

"I hope that the kids see that the world is so much bigger than their block, their neighborhood or Philadelphia," she said.

The royal couple also visited the Cira Center, where officials discussed opportunities to expand trade between Pennsylvania and the Netherlands.

Students answered an emphatic "yes" when asked if they would dream of one day performing in the Netherlands. The king and queen planned to end Monday evening in Washington, D.C., with dinner at the White House.

Their diplomatic tour of the U.S. will also take them to Miami.