King Charles III made history as the first British monarch to address both houses of the Italian Parliament, emphasizing the urgent need for allied democracies to unite in the face of global challenges. His visit coincided with the 20th wedding anniversary of him and Queen Camilla, who donned a repurposed silk dress reminiscent of her wedding day attire. The King’s speech, delivered partly in Italian, resonated with lawmakers as he discussed shared values between the UK and Italy and reiterated the military partnership needed to address ongoing international strife, particularly in light of the conflict in Ukraine.
King Charles III Advocates for Unity Amid Global Challenges in Historic Italian Parliament Speech

King Charles III Advocates for Unity Amid Global Challenges in Historic Italian Parliament Speech
In a landmark address, King Charles III emphasizes the importance of democratic solidarity between the UK and Italy during his visit marking both a state occasion and his royal anniversary.
During his address in the ornately decorated Palazzo Montecitorio, King Charles received an enthusiastic standing ovation from the parliamentarians. He implored the need for European nations to work together to combat the unsettling realities of modern warfare that many young people are now witnessing through their digital devices, stating, "Peace is never to be taken for granted." The King drew on the historical ties between the two nations, noting the long-standing cultural exchanges and the significance of Italy in history, particularly regarding the collaboration during World War II.
The royal couple’s day began with a ceremonial reception by Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni before they participated in a state banquet at the Quirinale Palace. The evening event was set to feature traditional Italian cuisine and a distinguished guest list. The visit to Italy has been met with local enthusiasm, with crowds celebrating the royal couple at landmarks like the Colosseum and eagerly calling out to King Charles. Meanwhile, back in the UK, a musical tribute was performed at Buckingham Palace in honor of the couple’s anniversary.
As this historic visit unfolds, King Charles III's message highlights an era of international cooperation and shared commitment among democracies, accentuated by the celebrations of his marriage milestone.
The royal couple’s day began with a ceremonial reception by Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni before they participated in a state banquet at the Quirinale Palace. The evening event was set to feature traditional Italian cuisine and a distinguished guest list. The visit to Italy has been met with local enthusiasm, with crowds celebrating the royal couple at landmarks like the Colosseum and eagerly calling out to King Charles. Meanwhile, back in the UK, a musical tribute was performed at Buckingham Palace in honor of the couple’s anniversary.
As this historic visit unfolds, King Charles III's message highlights an era of international cooperation and shared commitment among democracies, accentuated by the celebrations of his marriage milestone.