CHOGM: King Charles describes slave trade as shameful chapter of history

King Charles III, the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom and Head of the Commonwealth, addressed the opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in St John's, Antigua and Barbuda. During his speech, the King described the transatlantic slave trade as a "shameful chapter of history" that filled him with "horror and profound personal sorrow."

The King acknowledged the enduring impact of the trade on current generations and emphasized the importance of learning from history to prevent future wrongs. He urged Commonwealth member nations to use the lessons from the past to foster cooperation and progress in the present. The King highlighted the need for transformative investment in climate resilience, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and ocean conservation to address the challenges faced by small island nations.

He commended the Commonwealth's Secretary-General for proposing a new Nature Initiative, a Commonwealth-backed insurance mechanism, and a Net Zero Fund to support the transition to a low-carbon economy. The King expressed his commitment to working alongside Commonwealth leaders, the private sector, and civil society to address the needs of citizens, particularly those most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.