It seems like Queen Elizabeth has quite the influence! Just one day after the Queen expressed her hopes that Prince Charles would succeed her as the leader of the Commonwealth, Charles got the nod. This news comes not long after Elizabeth appointed Charles’ son, her grandson Prince Harry, as the Commonwealth Youth Ambassador. It's like a royal family affair, and it's all happening right before our eyes.
Elizabeth gave Charles, her eldest child, her full endorsement on Thursday, April 19, during a heartfelt Buckingham Palace speech for the formal opening of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. "It is my sincere wish that the Commonwealth will continue to offer stability and continuity for future generations and will decide that one day the Prince of Wales should carry on the important work started by my father in 1949," the 91-year-old monarch said. "By continuing to treasure and reinvigorate our associations and activities, I believe we will secure a safer, more prosperous, and sustainable world for those who follow us." It's clear that Elizabeth sees Charles as the perfect person to keep the legacy alive.
What's the Commonwealth All About?
Now, if you're not familiar with British lingo, the Commonwealth of Nations — once known as the British Commonwealth — is an intergovernmental organization of 53 member states. Most of these countries were once territories of the British Empire, like Canada, India, and Australia. As Elizabeth mentioned, her father, King George VI, became the leader when the Commonwealth was formed in 1949. He held that role until his passing in 1952, at which point Elizabeth stepped in to take over the reins.
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Charles Speaks His Mind
During his own speech, Charles shared his vision for the organization. "The Commonwealth has been a fundamental feature of my life for as long as I can remember, beginning with my first visit to Malta when I was just five years old," he said. "And so, ladies and gentlemen, I pray that this Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting will not only revitalize the bonds between our countries but will also give the Commonwealth a renewed relevance to all citizens, finding practical solutions to their problems and giving life to their aspirations. By doing so, the Commonwealth can be a cornerstone for the lives of future generations, just as it has been for so many of us." It's clear that Charles is committed to keeping the spirit of the Commonwealth alive and thriving.
The Queen, Charles, and Prince William.
Not Everyone's on Board
Jeremy Corbyn, leader of Britain’s opposition Labour party, seemed to oppose Charles's succession. On April 15, he told the BBC, "Maybe it's a time to say, 'Well, actually the Commonwealth should decide who its own president is on a rotational basis.'" Despite Corbyn's thoughts, the heads of government chose Charles anyway, giving the Prince of Wales yet another prestigious title to add to his list. It's clear that Charles is ready to step up and make his mark on the Commonwealth, continuing the legacy his grandmother has so carefully nurtured.
