WASHINGTON

President Joe Biden told King Charles III on Wednesday that he wishes to maintain a 'close relationship' during his first call with the new king after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Biden spoke with Charles to offer his condolences on the passing of the queen and he "recalled fondly the Queen’s kindness and hospitality, including when she hosted him and the First Lady at Windsor Castle last June," the White House said in a statement.

"He also conveyed the great admiration of the American people for the Queen, whose dignity and constancy deepened the enduring friendship and special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom," it said.

Biden formally accepted an invitation to attend the funeral for the queen, the White House said Sunday. He will be accompanied by first lady Jill Biden.

The funeral for Elizabeth, 96, who died last Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland after 70 years on the throne, will be Sept. 19 in London.