Monarch Addresses Papua New Guinea’s Independence Anniversary with Prince
Edward
King Charles appeared in a recorded message just days after Donald Trump made
surprising remarks about the monarch’s health during his UK state visit.
The King joined his brother, Prince Edward, virtually to celebrate Papua New
Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence. Edward, who travelled to the
country from 14 to 17 September on behalf of the King, attended several events
including a dawn flag-raising ceremony, a State Dinner with Pacific leaders,
and a large independence celebration at Sir John Guise Stadium.
The Royal Family released a series of photos on 19 September, highlighting the
Duke of Edinburgh’s trip and including details of the King’s participation.
The Palace statement noted, “Papua New Guinea’s rich and diverse culture was
on full display during HRH’s visits to the Wanigela and Okapa communities, and
at a large independence celebration at Sir John Guise Stadium where a video
message from The King was played to mark the occasion.”
During the ceremony, King Charles addressed the nation in Tok Pisin, Papua New
Guinea’s widely spoken language. He praised the country’s achievements and
expressed hope for its future, saying, “On this historic occasion, we looked
with hope and anticipation to the future of a proud new nation. Today, as you
mark this important milestone, we can look back with admiration at the
achievements and progress…”
The timing of the speech drew attention, as it came shortly after Trump told
Fox News that the monarch had “gone through pretty tough stuff medically” but
was now “doing great.”
