Slavery’s legacy: King Charles III pushes modern partnerships, economic opportunities

LONDON, Nov 4 - King Charles III declared the transatlantic slave trade a "monstrous injustice" during the Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda. The 56-nation group of former British colonies addressed Britain's role in slavery, which saw around 10-15 million slaves transported from Africa to the Americas over four centuries.

King Charles expressed horror and deep sorrow over the shameful chapter of history, noting that evil could be overcome through character and courage, as the Royal Navy played a leading role in ending the trade. As UK leader Andy Burnham held discussions about a formal apology, it emerged that the UK was open to saying sorry, but ruled out paying financial reparations demanded by some Caribbean countries.

Burnham, in office since July, indicated he was willing to have "difficult conversations" to help communities impacted by the transatlantic slave trade but emphasized that reparations were not the right answer. Instead, Britain was pursuing a "debt reset" plan for the poorest Commonwealth countries, which could alter interest rates on repayments.

The issue of slavery has strained relations between the UK and its former colonies, including awkward meetings with Commonwealth leaders in the past. King Charles, who is head of state in 14 Commonwealth countries, including several in the Caribbean, is not expected to offer an apology.