King Charles lands in Samoa to ceremonial welcome ahead of Commonwealth summit…..Read more

Charles shares ‘cheeky’ joke with rugby player as King lands in Samoa for climate summit
The royals were greeted by dignitaries who appeared delighted to welcome them to the island nation

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The King and Queen have been given a ceremonial welcome as they arrived in Samoa for a three-day state visit following a colourful and at times controversial trip to Australia.

Upon arrival, Charles, who was dressed in a double-breasted grey suit, and Camilla, in a flowing pink dress, were given the red carpet treatment. The pair were all smiles as they were greeted by dignitaries who looked equally delighted to welcome them to the island nation.

The trip coincides with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm), where the King will preside over discussions on climate change – a cause he has long championed.

Their arrival comes after the King shared a cheeky joke with a rugby player on the Australian leg of the royal tour. Charles, 75, met former professional rugby league player, Mark Geyer, at a barbecue in Sydney and remarked that he looked like could “still play”.

He proceeded to ask Mr Geyer why he had to retire. Mr Geyer replied that it was an issue with his groin. The King is reported to have quipped: “I know how you feel!”

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28 minutes ago
King Charles lands in Samoa to ceremonial welcome ahead of Commonwealth summit

King Charles lands in Samoa to ceremonial welcome ahead of Commonwealth summit
King Charles and Queen Camilla landed in Samoa to a full ceremonial welcome ahead of the Commonwealth summit. The monarch touched down in Samoa on Wednesday evening (22 October), to be greeted on the red carpet by a Guard of Honour. The royal couple waved as they stepped out of their plane at Faleolo International Airport. Prime Minister Afioga Fiamē Naomi Mataʻafa and Foreign Secretary David Lammy greeted them at the steps before they were introduced to a number of dignitaries. The King was invited to inspect the Guard of Honour, which was composed of Samoan police officers as the country has no armed forces.