King Charles' Speech Highlights His Affection for His Grandchildren
King Charles shares a loving relationship with Prince William and Kate Middleton's children and hopes to build a bond with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's children as well.
In a significant speech, the 75-year-old monarch gave a sweet and unexpected shoutout to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, delighting the Prince of Wales.
During a June visit to Buckingham Palace by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan, King Charles made a humorous reference to his three grandchildren, lightening the mood of his welcoming address.
Reflecting on past memories with Naruhito, such as attending the opera and fly fishing together, King Charles remarked, "I am only sorry to report that I haven't had any better luck with more recent attempts at fishing."
He added, "The Pokémon phrase 'gotta catch 'em all' may resonate with my grandchildren, but for me it is, perhaps, aspirational."
The joke was well-received by guests, including Prince William, who joined in the laughter around the table.
King Charles is known for being a devoted grandfather. Spending more time at Windsor Castle allows him to see Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis more frequently. The Wales family resides in Adelaide Cottage, a short 10-minute walk from the castle.
Royal expert Robert Hardman told PEOPLE, "Like all families, they'll have their moments, but there is clearly a sense of common purpose. They all realise this is a team effort."
Charles is reportedly eager to develop a closer relationship with Prince Harry's children, Archie and Lilibet, despite the Sussexes' estrangement from the royal family.
However, in a recent interview, Prince Harry indicated that security concerns might prevent King Charles from seeing Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in person, as Harry emphasised the need for adequate police protection when travelling to the UK.
Royal expert Jennie Bond told OK! Magazine that King Charles is keen to connect with his grandchildren. "Having grandchildren is a powerful tug on the heartstrings. Little people who are part of your bloodline and have had nothing to do with family quarrels and tensions," she explained. "So I can imagine that the King very much wants the chance to get to know Archie and Lilibet and to create some memories for them."
