King Charles calls slave trade a "shameful chapter of history" at Commonwealth summit

King Charles has described the transatlantic slave trade as a "shameful chapter of history" as he opened a summit of Commonwealth leaders in the Caribbean, according to BBC News.

In his address, the King said the trade in enslaved people "still casts a shadow" over Commonwealth members. He said it had filled him with "profound sorrow".

His remarks did not include a formal apology from the UK for its historic role in the slave trade. Calls for such an apology had been made ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.

King Charles has expressed sorrow for the suffering caused by slavery since 2022, according to Reuters, which reported on the issue on 30 October. In separate remarks reported by France 24, the King said he has a greater understanding of the "horrors of slavery".

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting brings together leaders from 56 states every two years. The King and Queen are currently on a tour of the Caribbean.