Despite being in their mid-70s, the King and Queen show no signs of slowing down following a four-day tour of Italy, which palace officials describe as a “huge high” for the couple.
While their security detail may have felt differently, the King and Queen enthusiastically engaged with locals during a walkabout in Ravenna.
“He loves his work and it keeps him going,” said the Queen. “I think it's wonderful, you know, if you've been ill and you are recovering, you're getting better and now he wants to do more and more and more. That's the problem… that's what he's driven by. Helping others."
A senior palace official admitted, “We’ve all tried!” when asked if anyone had told the King to slow down. His enthusiasm is partly attributed to how much he reads. “Because he reads a lot he learns a lot,” they added. “And in this role, as when Prince of Wales, he knows he is fortunate to be in a position to make a difference, and is determined to do just that."
During the trip, the royal couple visited key sites in Rome and Ravenna, including the Colosseum. However, the palace was quick to clarify these were not tourist stops. “There is a very serious business behind them,” a source said.
This was underscored by the King's address to the Italian parliament during a time of economic instability and war in Ukraine. A palace source noted, “There’s no accident that it should happen after the visits to France and Germany… with those huge crowds of enthusiastic Italians."
Rumours also swirl about a possible summer meeting between the King and Donald Trump in Scotland, following a letter from Keir Starmer. Speculations point to late June or early July. While Trump admires the monarch, Canada's future—a nation where the King remains head of state—could present a delicate topic.
On Canada, the palace said recent meetings with the outgoing and incoming prime ministers were “normal expressions of support” and that “showing support for Canada is something he's always done and that he will continue to do.”
Looking ahead, the palace confirmed more state visits—both inward and outward—are planned this year. Italy’s trip was deemed a success, with crowds calling out for “Carlo” and “Camilla.” A palace official said, “There is something very powerful about a constitutional monarchy… someone they feel they genuinely know.”
Despite ongoing cancer treatment, doctors are reportedly pleased with the King's progress. Palace insiders affirm his current schedule is manageable—a relief for Number 10, which sees the King as a diplomatic asset, particularly with a high-stakes U.S. meeting on the horizon.
Courtesy: Sky News
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
