King says late Queen would have been ‘troubled deeply’ by world events

WorldPolitics
21 Apr 2026 • 3:21 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

King says late Queen would have been ‘troubled deeply’ by world events

  • King Charles III paid tribute to his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on what would have been her 100th birthday, describing her as "constant, steadfast and wholly devoted" to the people she served.
  • In a video message filmed at Balmoral Castle, the King acknowledged that current global challenges would have "troubled her deeply" but took heart from her belief that "goodness will always prevail".
  • He renewed his "solemn pledge of duty and service" and urged people to celebrate her "life well-lived" rather than focusing on her absence.
  • A series of royal events are planned, including a Buckingham Palace reception for charities associated with the late Queen and the King presenting centenary cards to 100-year-olds.
  • Plans for a Queen Elizabeth Memorial were also mentioned, featuring a "family of gardens" through St James's Park and a new translucent bridge.

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