King Charles to address 'challenging issues' in landmark Commonwealth speech

In his first CHOGM address as Head of the Commonwealth, Charles is expected to highlight the organisation's ability to discuss difficult subjects with openness and respect.

The King will emphasise the importance of unity and equality among member nations, urging them to work together in addressing contemporary challenges.

The King's speech comes at a time when several Commonwealth nations are considering moving away from having the British monarch as their Head of State. Charles is expected to acknowledge the role of past wrongs in contemporary discussions.

During his recent visit to Australia, the King faced criticism from elected senator Lidia Thorpe, who accused him of genocide.

The issue of reparations for slavery has become a contentious topic among Commonwealth leaders. UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that Britain would not be paying out reparations, despite growing calls from some member states.

Sir Keir Starmer, who is also attending the summit, emphasised his focus on "current future-facing challenges" rather than "endless discussions about reparations".

Charles will address the "existential threat" of climate change and its impact on many Commonwealth nations, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The King is expected to say that together we are wiser, stronger and more able to respond to the demands of our time.

He will highlight the Commonwealth's scale and diversity, representing a third of humanity, as a strength in tackling global challenges.

The monarch will also mention the newly launched King's Commonwealth Fellowship Programme, aimed at creating opportunities and addressing issues like climate change and inequality.

This initiative will offer fellowships to mid-career professionals, undergraduate scholarships, and PhDs to candidates from SIDS.

Charles's engagements in Samoa reflect the CHOGM theme of "A Resilient Environment", with a focus on sustainability and biodiversity.

The King is expected to conclude his speech with a call for unity, to forge a future of harmony with nature and between ourselves.

Charles's commitment to environmental issues has earned him respect worldwide.

The monarch will emphasise the Commonwealth's role as "an unquestionable force for good in an ever-changing world".

His address aims to balance acknowledging historical challenges with a focus on future cooperation.

The King and Queen arrived in Samoa on Wednesday for a four-day state visit. Their engagements reflect the summit's themes of sustainability and biodiversity.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has also arrived in Samoa for the event. Foreign Secretary David Lammy attended several engagements with the King earlier on Thursday, including an Ava ceremony welcoming the royal couple to the Pacific island nation.