King Charles has expressed his sadness to hear of the death of Sir Julius Chan, the two-time former Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, who died aged 85.
The last "founding father" of the Pacific island died on January 30, sparking an outpour of tributes across the nation.
The Papua New Guinean government declared a one-week period of national mourning over his death.
King Charles has been Head of State in the commonwealth nation since 2022, when he ascended the British throne.
King Charles has expressed his sadness to hear of the death of Sir Julius Chan
Getty ImagesThe previous Head of State was Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for over 70 years.
King Charles wrote: "My wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the loss of Sir Julius Chan.
"He was a dedicated public servant, and devoted his life to help build Papua New Guinea into the strong, independent nation that it is today.
"His dedication served as an inspiration to many and I remember with great fondness meeting Sir Julius many times over his decades of service."
King Charles released the statement on the Royal Family's official social media account
The King signed the message with "Charles R", his personal signature.
Chan, who was affectionately called "Sir J", was the country's longest serving politician after first being elected in Papua New Guinea pre-independence House of Assembly in 1968.
He went on to become the nation's second Prime Minister.
The politician remained a member of the national parliament and governor of his New Ireland province when he died in late January.
LATEST ROYAL NEWS:
The Chan family released a statement on January 30 announcing the death of Sir Julius at the age of 85
Getty
The Chan family released a statement on January 30 announcing the death of Sir Julius at the age of 85.
The statement read: "Our father passed away peacefully this afternoon at 12.30pm at his beloved home at Manmantinut, Huris surrounded by family and friends.
"We thank all those who have stood by him, and those who have shared his legacy throughout his political life from pre-independence to the time of his passing.
"He was a political icon transcending generations and his legacy will remain forever in the pages of our history books and moreso in the hearts of so many."
You may like
