The King, who has paused his own cancer treatment to fly to Samoa, finished his speech by telling Commonwealth leaders: “For my part, I can assure you today that for however many years God grants me, I will join you and the people of the Commonwealth on every step of this journey.
“Let us learn from the lessons of the past. Let us be proud of who we are today. And together, let us forge a future of harmony with nature, and between ourselves, that our children and our grandchildren deserve.”
Tonight he will host a dinner for the CHOGM heads of government, where he will deliver further remarks.
Ahead of the King’s speech, the Prime Minister of Samoa Fiame Naomi Mata’afa hailed the late Queen Elizabeth II’s “steady leadership” and her “unifying role”.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Scotland said the late Queen served the Commonwealth with “duty and distinction”, adding: “His Majesty has been been in our thoughts and prayers and so happy you are with us today.”
The King too made tribute to his late “dear mother” and her “commitment” to the Commonwealth.