For the first time in a decade, Queen Elizabeth II did not attend the Commonwealth Day service, instead represented by her son, Charles, the Prince of Wales. It is understood the monarch, who has just recovered from Covid-19, made the decision as a practical measure to do with travel arrangements, rather than a health issue.
Charles and Camilla were joined by William and Kate at the service. Despite the Queen’s absence, the service was a big affair for the royal family, since it was the first time the Commonwealth Day had been celebrated in person since 2020.
Sharing a message ahead of the service, the Queen spoke of her lifelong commitment to service. “In this year of my Platinum Jubilee, it has given me pleasure to renew the promise I made in 1947, that my life will always be devoted in service,” it read.
“Today, it is rewarding to observe a modern, vibrant and connected Commonwealth that combines a wealth of history and tradition with the great social, cultural and technological advances of our time. That the Commonwealth stands ever taller is a credit to all who have been involved.”
The Duchess of Cambridge looked elegant in a royal blue Catherine Walker London coat and sapphire diamond jewellery.
This year’s Commonwealth Day service followed a theme of ‘Delivering A Common Future’ while also celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Year.
Tongan leader Elizabeth Kite delivered a powerful speech, telling of how the “wisdom” the Queen helped during times of need. “This wisdom recent occurred in my mind when Tonga was beset by the Hunga Tonga volcanic eruption and tsunami,” she said.
“We had only ourselves to rely on in the immediate aftermath, but when our local radio station finally connected to the outside world we were greeted by a message from the head of our Commonwealth family. Her Majesty sent a message of support and comfort to our people through our own king and queen…For a country still shaking with fear and still clinging to the last bit of faith we had, this inspired hope and lifted our spirits in a time of crisis.”