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King Charles III has delivered his first address to the nation.
He promised to serve the citizens and paid homage to Mother Elizabeth.
– Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and the family of nations that you have served so diligently all these years.
On Friday evening, mourners gathered in St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. Both members of the public as well as Prime Minister Liz Truss and Opposition Leader Keir Starmer were in attendance.
– Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived, a promise with a fulfilled destiny. Her passing is deeply mourned, says Charles.
Charles took as his starting point the Queen’s pledge in Cape Town in 1947 to devote her life to serving the people.
– It was more of a promise – it was a deep personal commitment that defined her entire life.
– I renew that promise of lifelong service to all of you today, says Charles.
“Loyalty, respect and love”
As king, Charles vows to follow in his mother’s footsteps.
– The remaining time that God gives me, I dearly promise to maintain the constitutional principles in the heart of our nation. Wherever you live in the UK or around the world, whatever your background or faith, I will serve you with loyalty, respect and love – as I have done all my life.
The newly crowned king announces that his son William, who is next in line to the throne, will become the new Prince of Wales.
– With Catherine by her side, I am convinced that our new Prince and Princess of Wales will continue to inspire, says Charles.
For his own part, it will be good to do a lot more, states the king.
– My life will of course change with my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible to devote so much time and energy to issues and charity that I care about.
“Beloved mom”
At the end of his speech, the new king became more personal.
– This is a big time of change for my family. I rely on loving help from my beloved wife Camilla. In recognition of her loyal service since our marriage 17 years ago, she will be my queen consort, says Charles.
He also congratulated the royal family’s black sheep.
– I want to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives on the other side of the Atlantic.
At the end of the speech, Charles again addressed his mother.
– To my beloved mother. As you begin your journey to join my dear father, I want to say: Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and the family of nations that you have served so diligently all these years.
– May the angels sing you to rest.