A new photo of the monarch with President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu offers
reassurance about his condition and highlights his commitment to royal duties.
King Charles III appeared upbeat and engaged as he welcomed the President of
Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, to Buckingham Palace this week, despite
continued concerns about his health.
On Tuesday, October 15, Buckingham Palace released a warm photograph showing
the 76-year-old monarch shaking hands with the visiting leader. The image,
accompanied by a brief Palace statement—“The President of the Republic of Fiji
visited The King today at Buckingham Palace”—helped put to rest growing
rumours about the King’s well-being.
The meeting came just days after Charles sent a heartfelt message to mark
Fiji’s Independence Day, congratulating the President and people of Fiji while
expressing a wish to visit the nation again.
“My wife and I have great pleasure in sending you and the people of the
Republic of Fiji our heartfelt congratulations on the auspicious occasion of
your Independence Day,” the King wrote. “My hope remains that I will be able
to return to Fiji at some point in the future.”
He went on to praise the enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and
Fiji, calling it “an enduring gift which we must continue to invest in and
cherish.”
Reflecting on the strength of the Commonwealth, the King added that he
remained proud of its “remarkable diversity and inspirational young people”
and confident in its ability to meet global challenges.
King Charles also commended Fiji’s leadership in confronting climate change,
calling the nation “a trusted advocate and respected global voice among island
states.”
Diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer earlier this year, the King’s
steady return to public duties has been seen as a sign of resilience and
dedication to his role. The Palace’s latest photo underscores that
spirit—showing a monarch still very much at work and focused on the future.
