LONDON – King Charles III says he feels “profound sorrow” at the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, and has vowed to carry on her “lifelong service” to the nation.
Charles is making his first address to Britain and the Commonwealth as monarch. He became king on Thursday after the queen’s death.
“That promise of lifelong service I renew to all today,” he said.
Charles also expressed his love for his son, Prince Harry, and his wife, Meghan, in his first speech to the nation since taking the throne.
Charles, who became king upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, wishes the couple well “as they build their life overseas.”
Meghan, 41, and Harry, 37, have been in a tense relationship with Britain’s royal family since they stepped away from royal duties and left the U.K. in early 2020, citing what they said were the unbearable intrusions and racist attitudes of the British media.
His speech was broadcast on television and streamed at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where some 2,000 people were attending a service of remembrance for the queen. Mourners at the service included Prime Minister Liz Truss and members of her government.
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