King Charles speaks about painful history at Commonwealth summit

King Charles speaks about painful history at Commonwealth summit

Britain's King Charles has said the Commonwealth should recognize its "painful" history and called on the organization to "eliminate persistent inequalities" as he opened a meeting of Commonwealth nations in Samoa on Friday.

The meaning of history

"I have heard from many people across the Commonwealth how the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate. It is therefore crucial that we understand our history in order to make the right decisions for the future," Charles said in his first speech as leader of the Commonwealth.

Call for unity

“As we look at the world and reflect on its many troubling challenges, we should choose the language of community and respect within our Commonwealth family and reject the language of division,” he added, reflecting on the resurgent theme of the Slave Damages added.

Commitment to a fairer future

Charles, who did not directly address the issue of slavery in his address, also noted, "None of us can change the past, but we can wholeheartedly commit to learning from its lessons and finding creative ways to address existing inequalities."

Important topics at CHOGM

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) takes place every two years and brings together delegations from the 56 member states. The aim is to work together to address some of the world's most pressing issues, including climate change, creating opportunities for young people and promoting inclusive and sustainable prosperity for all.

Preparations for the summit

During Friday's welcoming ceremony, Charles addressed Commonwealth leaders, foreign ministers and dignitaries.

In the run-up to the meeting, the reported BBC, that diplomats were preparing a text for the official communique of the summit. This is intended to ensure a “meaningful, truthful and respectful discussion” on the topic.

A new approach to the British monarchy

In recent years, the British monarchy has adopted a more conciliatory tone when it comes to addressing the horrific aspects of transatlantic slavery. On his first trip to a Commonwealth country as head of the Commonwealth, which took him to Kenya last November, Charles said that the "missteps of the past were a source of the greatest regret and deepest sadness".

This is a developing story and will be continually updated.