King Charles III Addresses the Nation, Confirms New Titles for Family Members
LONDON – In his frist public address as monarch following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III outlined his vision for the future of the monarchy and formally recognized the altered roles within the royal family. The speech,delivered Friday,marked a significant transition for the House of Windsor and clarified the line of succession.
The death of the Queen triggered automatic changes to the royal hierarchy. Prince William, as the eldest son of the King, is now the first in line to the throne, followed by his three children in order of age. Alongside this,William and catherine,now the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Cambridge,were formally named the Prince and Princess of Wales - a title traditionally bestowed upon the heir apparent. A public investiture ceremony, reminiscent of the one held for then-Prince Charles in 1969, is anticipated.
King Charles also addressed the status of his younger son, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle, who relocated to California after stepping back from royal duties. Their children, Archie and Lilibet, are now entitled to the titles of Prince and Princess, respectively, under royal protocols established in 1917 granting HRH status and princely titles to children and grandchildren of the sovereign.
In his address, the King expressed his love for Harry and Meghan ”as they continue to build their lives overseas.” He also acknowledged the vital support of his wife, Camilla, now Queen Consort, stating he would rely on her “both personally and as sovereign” to navigate the demands of his new role.
