By james art Charles used his first speech at the biennial Commonwealth summit in Samoa as head of the family of nations to highlight how relations between member states meant “we can discuss the most challenging issues with openness and respect”.
He held a series of talks with Commonwealth leaders ahead of the event and told the assembled heads of state: “I understand from listening to the people of the Commonwealth how the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate.”
The gathering of presidents and prime ministers for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm) could see member states begin a “meaningful conversation” on the issue of slavery reparations, according to reports.
The King said in his landmark speech: “As we look around the world and consider its many deeply troubling challenges, let us choose within our Commonwealth family the language of community and respect and reject the language of division.
“None of us can change the past. But we can commit wholeheartedly to learning its lessons and finding creative ways to correct the inequalities that persist.”
In an interview with the BBC, Chancellor Rachel Reeves reiterated the government’s view on reparations: “We’re not going to pay the reparations that some countries are talking about.
“I understand why they’re making these requests, but it’s not something this government does.”
World leaders will choose a new Commonwealth secretary-general to replace Baroness Scotland during their meeting and the three candidates vying for the post have called for reparations to countries that have been affected by slavery and colonialism.
Ahead of the summit in Samoa, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman insisted Sir Keir Starmer would not discuss reparations when he attended Chogm.
But Commonwealth officials are considering an agreement that could start talks on the issue through a communique, according to the BBC.
Charles told the assembled world leaders: “Together we represent a third of humanity, with all the incredibly diverse complexity that entails. Yet we know and understand each other, so we can discuss the most challenging issues with openness and respect.
“At a time of heightened global tensions, of terrifying conflicts and challenges of the greatest magnitude, it seems to me that these ties between us are more valuable than ever.
“Together we are wiser, stronger and better able to meet the demands of our time.”
He added: “However, our unity requires that we recognize where we come from. I understand from listening to people in the Commonwealth how the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate.”