Britain’s King Charles III continues to fulfil his royal responsibilities despite recent problems, including a recent hospitalisation, and remains committed to duty to his country, signalling his readiness to embark on a four-day tour of Italy with Queen Camilla. His planned visit to Rome will be marked not only by meetings with senior Italian officials, but also by his 20th wedding anniversary, which the couple will celebrate at a state banquet at the Quirinal Palace.
Since the public learnt of the British monarch’s diagnosis in February 2024, the King has been receiving weekly treatment in London. Thus, on the eve of his trip, he spent several hours under medical supervision after an unwanted reaction to medication, but, as sources assure, the King himself is not worried about it.
“He is in excellent shape and is determined to follow the set schedule,” palace officials close to the monarch tell us.
Despite the initial anxiety caused by his recent hospitalisation, the King spent several days at a country estate, giving him a chance to recuperate before his trip to Italy. According to knowledgeable sources, the rest period allowed the monarch to take a break from his busy work routine and prepare for upcoming meetings. The King and Queen are looking forward to interacting with the Italian people.
UK-Italy relations
As part of his visit, the King will meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and is also scheduled to become the first British monarch to address a meeting of the Italian Parliament.
“Italy has always been an important part of our schedule and we are delighted to be able to exchange cultural and economic ideas with Italian friends,” a source close to the monarch said.
In addition to official meetings, the couple will also learn about regional culinary traditions during their visit, which sources said has “whetted the appetite” of the King and Queen. Political analysts believe the visit to Rome and Ravenna will be a milestone for the royal family, noting the importance of Anglo-Italian relations.
Palace sources also added that a gala dinner at Highgrove to deepen Anglo-Italian relations emphasised the importance of the upcoming visit, which promises to be successful and constructive.
“With the Queen’s physical and moral support, the King continues to do his utmost to fulfil the expectations of his people,” royal experts said.
The Royal Family’s problems
However, there are serious distractions in the King’s personal life. His son Prince Harry appealed a court decision to overturn a decision to withdraw his state protection when he and his wife Meghan Markle stopped performing royal duties as the senior member of the monarchy and moved to the US.
Meanwhile, the scandal surrounding Prince Andrew, involving his friendship with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and allegations of dating an alleged spy, continues to create difficulties for the monarch. Sources say the Duke of York has also expressed a desire to meet with Britain’s parent internal security organisation, MI5, following recent spying rumours.
Despite the external challenges, Queen Camilla has played an important role in supporting the King by taking on additional responsibilities within the royal family. She and the Prince of Wales continue to rearrange their work schedules, allowing the King to focus on his health and responsibilities.
Experts close to the royal family note that the King is focused on his work in an effort to serve the people and maintain stability in the monarchy: “The royal family is keen to show their people that despite the difficulties and challenges, they remain strong and united.”
