The king has told world leaders that the past cannot be changed but countries can “commit” to “correct inequalities that persist”, as momentum grew for a debate on slavery reparations.
Charles used his first speech at the biennial Commonwealth Summit in Samoa as head of the family of nations to highlight how the relationship between member states meant that “we can discuss the most challenging issues with openness and respect.”
He held a series of telephone conversations with Commonwealth leaders ahead of the event, telling the assembled heads of state: “Listening to people across the Commonwealth has helped me understand 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 historic speech: “As we look around the world and reflect on its many, profound challenges, within our Commonwealth family let us choose the language of community and respect, and reject the language of division.
“None of us can change the past. But we can work wholeheartedly to learn its lessons and find creative ways to redress persistent inequalities.”
In an interview with the BBC, Chancellor Rachel Reeves reiterated the government’s position on reparations: “We are not going to pay out the reparations that some countries are talking about.
“I understand why they are making these demands, but that is not something this government does.”
World leaders will elect the new Commonwealth Secretary-General to replace Baroness Scotland at their meeting. All three candidates vying for the job have called for reparations to countries 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 if he goes to Chogm.
But officials from Commonwealth countries are looking at an agreement that could begin talks on the issue through a communiqué, according to the BBC.
Charles told the assembled world leaders: “Together we represent a third of humanity, with all the beautifully diverse complexity that this entails. And 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 horrific conflicts and challenges of the greatest magnitude, it seems to me that these connections between us are more valuable than ever.
“Together we are wiser, stronger and better able to respond to the demands of our time.”
He added: “That said, our cohesion requires us to recognize where we come from. Listening to people across the Commonwealth has helped me understand how the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate.”
