King Charles III has congratulated King Mswati III and the people of Eswatini on the country’s Independence Day, describing the relationship between Eswatini and the United Kingdom as one built on friendship, partnership and shared Commonwealth values.
The British monarch conveyed the message in a letter addressed to King Mswati III, in which he and his wife, Queen Camilla, sent their warmest wishes to the King and emaSwati on the occasion of the national celebrations.
Charles said he reflected with appreciation on the longstanding relationship between the United Kingdom and Eswatini, noting that the partnership had continued to grow through mutual respect, common values and links between the two countries’ people.
“I reflect with sincere appreciation on the enduring friendship and close partnership shared between the United Kingdom and Eswatini. Rooted in mutual respect and common values, our relationship continues to flourish, strengthened by the ties between our peoples and our shared commitment to the Commonwealth,” Charles said.
He said the Commonwealth continued to provide an important platform for cooperation among its diverse member states.
“Our family of nations remains a source of great strength, fostering understanding, cooperation and opportunity across the world,” he said.
The King also pointed to the contribution of young people across the Commonwealth, saying their energy and the organisation’s diversity offered reasons for optimism and progress.
“The Commonwealth’s rich diversity and the energy of its younger generations continue to inspire hope and progress,” he said.
Charles said the importance of cooperation among Commonwealth countries had become even greater amid global uncertainty.
He said he looked forward to the opportunity for Commonwealth leaders to meet later this year at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, where member states would discuss shared commitments and work towards a prosperous future for their citizens.
“I look forward to the opportunity for our nations to come together at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting later this year, where we may reaffirm our shared commitments and chart a course towards a prosperous future for all our citizens,” he said.
The British monarch also welcomed Eswatini’s efforts to build resilience against environmental challenges and protect its natural heritage.
“I am encouraged by Eswatini’s commitment to building resilience in the face of environmental challenges and to safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations,” Charles said.
He described such efforts as an example of the responsibility needed to secure a sustainable future.
“Such efforts serve as an example of the determination and responsibility required to secure a sustainable future for our world,” he said.
Charles and Queen Camilla concluded their message by wishing King Mswati III and emaSwati peace, prosperity and success in the year ahead.
“My wife and I extend our very best wishes to you and to all emaSwati for a peaceful, prosperous and successful year ahead,” he said.
