Visit King Charles to Tense Northern Ireland

The visit of the new King Charles III to Northern Ireland is mainly dominated by the tense situation in the country. Since Brexit and the associated special trade rules for Northern Ireland, the relationship with the United Kingdom has been under fire.

The Northern Ireland Parliament has offered condolences to Charles on the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, at a funeral at Hillsborough Castle near Belfast. At the castle, he would also speak with the vice president of the republican party Sinn Féin. The party favours reunification with Ireland and is the largest in parliament for the first time since the elections in May.

Charles said in a speech that he is committed to “the well-being of all residents of Northern Ireland”, following his mother’s example. Queen consort Camilla was also present. Outside the castle, they were met by hundreds of spectators.

As the new king, Charles visits all four parts of the United Kingdom to introduce himself as the new head of state. Although the British and Scottish parliaments previously received him, the king will travel to Wales on Friday.