King Charles III expresses ‘sorrow’ over slave trade at Commonwealth confab in Antigua

King Charles III expressed sorrow over the transatlantic slave trade at the Commonwealth summit in Antigua, calling it a 'shameful chapter of history' but stopping short of an apology. His speech followed British PM Andy Burnham's openness to a formal apology and debt restructuring, while rejecting reparations. Protesters outside demanded accountability.

King Charles III called the transatlantic slave trade a 'shameful chapter of history' during a speech at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua on Tuesday. He expressed 'profound personal sorrow' but did not apologize. His remarks came days after British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he is open to making a formal apology and proposed debt restructuring for the poorest Commonwealth countries, while rejecting calls for reparations. Charles noted the Royal Navy's role in ending the slave trade and emphasized learning from the past. Outside the venue, a small group of protesters held signs demanding apology and reparatory justice. One protester, Michelle, said the British government avoids accountability. The article also notes the royal family's historical ties to the slave trade. Leaders including Burnham, Australian PM Anthony Albanese, and Canadian PM Mark Carney attended the opening ceremony. Antigua and Barbuda PM Gaston Browne highlighted funding pledges, including over $200 million for the Commonwealth Nature Initiative.