King Charles III addressed leaders from 56 Commonwealth countries at the official opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda. Speaking as he concluded a nine-day tour of the Caribbean, the King described the transatlantic slave trade as a shameful chapter of history that fills his heart with horror.
Expressing sincere sorrow over slavery and its brutal legacy, King Charles stated that deepening his understanding of these horrors has made him more determined to address the wrongs of the past. He noted that while the actions of those who came before cannot be changed, there is an opportunity to learn from the past.
Despite these remarks, the King stopped short of issuing a formal apology or providing explicit support for reparations. This comes as Caribbean leaders and campaigners intensify demands for Britain to address its historic involvement in the slave trade and the resulting generational riches.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who was also scheduled to speak at the meeting in Antigua, stated that he is open to the United Kingdom apologizing for the transatlantic slave trade.