The United Kingdom’s new monarch, King Charles III, vowed to continue the legacy of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, by dedicating his life to service during his first televised address to the nation Friday.
Charles grew emotional recalling the legacy of his mother, whose historic reign ended Thursday when she died at the age of 96 after 70 years on the throne.
“Queen Elizabeth’s was a life well lived, a promise with destiny kept, and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today,” Charles said. “Wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavor to serve you with loyalty, respect, and love, as I have throughout my life.”
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With his new position as the king, Charles will step back from his charitable work and pass the responsibilities to other members of the royal family. His eldest son, Prince William, who became the prince of Wales Friday, will take over Charles’s responsibilities in Cornwall. William is now the heir apparent.
“With Catherine beside him, our new prince and princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the center ground where vital help can be given,” Charles said.
Charles arrived in London on Friday morning, marking his first return to the city as Britain’s new head of state. Members of the royal family had traveled to Balmoral Castle in Scotland to say their goodbyes to the queen on Thursday. Although both princes flew to Scotland, both wives remained behind.
Charles ascended to the throne immediately after the queen died, but he will be formally declared the king of the U.K. on Saturday. A coronation ceremony is expected in the coming months.
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British Prime Minister Liz Truss met with Charles on Friday, and flags flew at half-staff on government buildings as the country entered a period of mourning. The national mourning period will conclude next weekend with a funeral for the queen. No date for the funeral has been set.
Global leaders — including President Joe Biden, who confirmed he would travel to England for the funeral — are expected to attend the memorial service.
