Monarch resumes royal duties with New Zealand PM following Pope Francis’s death
King Charles III resumed his royal responsibilities with a significant meeting at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, just a day after mourning the passing of Pope Francis and amid rising speculation surrounding Prince Andrew’s future role within the monarchy.
The King welcomed New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for a private audience, continuing his diplomatic duties despite the emotional weight of recent events. In a social media post, Luxon shared an image of the King smiling warmly as they shook hands.
“His Majesty King Charles III has a deep love of New Zealand,” Luxon wrote. “It was an honour to have an audience with him at Windsor Castle upon my arrival in London.”
Although specific details of their conversation remain confidential, the Prime Minister confirmed they discussed a range of topics and began the meeting by reflecting on the death of Pope Francis. The King had previously issued a heartfelt public statement expressing his sorrow, just 12 days after meeting the late pontiff during a visit to Italy.
The meeting also came as public attention turned once again to Prince Andrew, who reappeared at the royal family’s Easter Sunday service at St George’s Chapel—sparking renewed calls for his complete removal from public life.
Residents of York have voiced strong opposition to the disgraced Duke retaining his title, claiming it tarnishes the city’s image. Royal commentator Phil Dampier has suggested Andrew’s return to royal duties is “only a matter of time,” though Prince William is reportedly firmly opposed to his uncle’s reintegration into the royal fold.
While King Charles remains focused on state matters, questions persist over how he will navigate the sensitive issue of Prince Andrew’s potential reemergence in royal life.
