King Charles acknowledges “painful” history as he opens Commonwealth summit

() – King Charles of England affirmed that the British Commonwealth of Nations must recognize its “painful” history and has urged the organization to “correct the inequalities that persist”, when opening a meeting of Commonwealth countries in Samoa this Friday.

“Listening to people from across the Commonwealth, I realize that the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate. That is why it is vital that we understand our history, so that it can guide us in making the right decisions in the future,” Carlos said in his first speech as president of the Commonwealth of Nations.

“As we look around the world and consider its many and deeply troubling challenges, let us choose within our Commonwealth family the language of community and respect, and reject the language of division,” he said in the speech after the issue of reparations for slavery resurfaced in recent days.

Carlos, who did not directly address slavery during his speech, also said, “None of us can change the past, but we can wholeheartedly commit to learning its lessons and finding creative ways to correct enduring inequalities.”

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, or CHOGM, is held every two years and brings together delegations from all 56 member states to collaborate on some of the most pressing issues. such as climate change, creating opportunities for young people and promoting inclusive and sustainable prosperity for all.

Charles addressed Commonwealth leaders, foreign ministers and dignitaries during Friday’s welcome ceremony.

Ahead of the meeting, the BBC reported that diplomats were preparing language for the summit’s official statement in which they would commit to a “meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation” on the issue.

In recent years, the British monarchy has adopted a more conciliatory tone in addressing the past horrors of transatlantic slavery. In Kenya last November, on his first trip to a Commonwealth nation as head of the body, Carlos said that “the bad actions of the past are a cause of the greatest sadness and deepest regret.”

This is a developing story and will be updated.