King Charles III has begun his first tour of the Caribbean as monarch, arriving in the Bahamas for a nine-day journey that includes Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda. After a ceremonial welcome and a youth gathering, he met Governor General Dame Cynthia A. Pratt and Prime Minister Philip Edward, commencing official engagements in these nations.

At the youth gathering at Clifford Park, the King declared it “only right” to acknowledge “the great sufferings and injustices of the past”. BBC News reported that Buckingham Palace had anticipated the intention to address the colonial legacy and the slave trade, but without apologies or reparations, in line with the British position.

The monarch also recalled his fifty-year commitment against climate change, highlighting the challenges for Caribbean islands. He urged young people to protect the planet, considering it fundamental for the future. Environmental issues will be central in the next stages of the journey in the region.

The tour program, coordinated with local governments, includes moments of reflection on the legacy of slavery and visits to memorials. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson told BBC News that the focus will be on modern partnerships and future opportunities. The King will proceed to Guyana and then to Antigua and Barbuda for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.