In brief
In a historic address, King Charles III became the first British monarch to speak before both houses of the Italian Parliament, sharing messages of solidarity amid global challenges.
King Charles III delivered a historic speech in the Italian Parliament during his state visit to Italy, marking the first time a British monarch has addressed both houses. Emphasizing the need for democracies like the UK and Italy to unite during these challenging times, the King received a resounding standing ovation as he spoke, partially in Italian, about the significance of defending shared values.The visit coincided with the King and Queen Camilla's 20th wedding anniversary, which added a personal touch to the proceedings. The Queen donned an ivory silk dress originally worn on their wedding day in 2005, thoughtfully repurposed for the occasion, while also delighting in a slice of Margherita pizza presented to her during a visit to a local school.In his poignant speech set against the backdrop of the ornate Palazzo Montecitorio, King Charles acknowledged the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, advocating for the need to strengthen military ties between the UK and Italy. He remarked on the shared historical ties between the two nations, stretching back to the days of the Romans, and emphasized the cultural connections that continue to grow today, evidenced by British artists like Ed Sheeran performing in Italy.After addressing lawmakers, the King met with Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, receiving a ceremonial red-carpet welcome at Villa Doria Pamphili. Their animated discussions took place amidst beautiful gardens overlooking the Vatican, showcasing a warm diplomatic relationship.The royal couple concluded their anniversary day with a state banquet at the Quirinale Palace, highlighting local cuisine and attended by distinguished guests. As they engaged with the Italian public, the King and Queen received enthusiastic support, reminiscent of their warm reception during their visits to iconic sites like the Colosseum. Back in the UK, tribute music filled Buckingham Palace, featuring a rendition of Madness's classic "It Must Be Love," celebrating the royal couple's enduring bond.
