King Charles described the transatlantic slave trade as a “shameful chapter of history” that fills him with “profound sorrow” as he opened the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda. He said the trade in enslaved people continues to cast a shadow over Commonwealth nations.
Calls for the UK Government to make a formal apology for Britain’s historic role in the trade had preceded the summit. The King did not apologise in his address, though he said that learning more about the issue had strengthened his commitment to addressing past wrongs through future action and modern partnerships.
He also reflected on the complexity of historical inheritance, saying it includes both the achievements and failures of previous generations. His speech touched on global challenges including violent conflicts, climate change and rapid technological development.
The biennial summit brings together leaders from 56 Commonwealth states. This year’s official theme is “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”
The King and Queen are touring the Caribbean, a visit that has revived debate about Britain’s colonial legacy in the region. During earlier stops, Charles spoke about past suffering in the Bahamas and visited a site associated with a slave rebellion in Guyana, where hundreds of enslaved people were killed.
Sources: BBC News UK.