King releases poignant video message saying he’ll ‘continue to serve you, to the best of my ability’ amid cancer battle
CANCER-hit King Charles will today speak to the Commonwealth — and vow “to continue to serve you, to the best of my ability”.
In a pre-recorded message, his first since he made known his diagnosis five weeks ago, His Majesty will deliver a rallying cry to member nations worldwide.
His 615-word Commonwealth Day address will be beamed from Westminster Abbey at a 2,000-guest ceremony attended by other royals including Queen Camilla and Prince William.
The late Queen missed the 2022 ceremony with ill health, issuing a written message.
Charles will say: “Having recently celebrated my own 75th birthday, it warms my heart to reflect on the way the Commonwealth has been a constant throughout my own life — a precious source of strength, inspiration and pride.
“In recent weeks, I have been most deeply touched by your wonderfully kind and thoughtful good wishes for my health and, in return, can only continue to serve you, to the best of my ability, throughout the Commonwealth.
“My belief in our shared endeavours and in the potential of our people remains as sure and strong as it has ever been.
“I have no doubt that we will continue to support one another across the Commonwealth as, together, we continue this vital journey.”
The King, who will speak of member nations’ “common ambitions for a better future”, recorded his Commonwealth message at Windsor Castle last month.
Despite his cancer battle, it is understood he is keen to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government conference in Samoa in October.
The Commonwealth, which has 56 members, continues to grow with African nations Togo and Gabon joining last year.
The King said it shows “we have common ambitions for a better future”.