Prince Albert II of Monaco confides about Charles III
Present in London on Saturday for the ceremonies, Prince Albert II spoke to TF1 about the character of the crowned king, whom he knows well and with whom he shares certain commitments.
He was one of the first heads of state to announce that he would attend the coronation of King Charles III. Accompanied by his wife, Princess Charlene, Prince Albert II was seated yesterday among the high-profile personalities in the pews of Westminster Abbey.
At the same time, TF1 broadcast several extracts from an interview with the Monegasque monarch, recorded a few days ago in the salons of the Princely Palace, to talk about the personality of the new British monarch, whom he knows well. "He goes spontaneously towards people, he likes to be in crowds. I really believe he has a natural empathy with people. I think this will mark his reign," said the prince, when questioned by Jean-Claude Narcy.
The closeness of two former heirs
Albert II and Charles III know each other well. For many years they were both heirs to the throne of their dynasty, and they rubbed shoulders with each other at the solemn, festive and commemorative events that affect the great ruling families in Europe. This closeness has allowed them to forge personal and friendly ties. Both are committed to environmental conservation through the work of the foundations they have created.
When asked about King Charles III's reputation for speaking out, the Prince of Monaco replied bluntly: "We have seen him speak out over the years and he does not hesitate to express himself on various subjects. Will he be able to do so as freely? I don't know... In any case, all his public interventions must be in line with the British government and its Prime Minister. It will take a lot of coordination, but I think he will probably want to express himself on certain subjects.
A first for a Monegasque monarch
On Friday evening, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene were among the guests of the Windsor family at Buckingham Palace for a reception on the eve of the coronation. This was followed by a dinner at Oswald's Club in the heart of London, where Monaco's royal couple were photographed by the British press.