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King Charles, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, was seen working for the first time in a photo taken during his meeting with Rishi Sunak at Buckingham Palace.
The 75-year-old ruler had a meeting with the prime minister on Wednesday afternoon, resuming their weekly discussions about governmental affairs.
This is the initial instance of the King being recorded performing his official duties after his unexpected diagnosis. Due to this, he has been unable to participate in public appearances as he receives medical care.
“Mr. Sunak complimented the King on his appearance, to which the King playfully responded, “It’s just smoke and mirrors.”
He shared that he was deeply moved by the overwhelming support from the public and expressed to Mr. Sunak, “I have received numerous heartfelt messages and cards. It has brought me to tears on several occasions.”
After exchanging a handshake with the King, Mr Sunak expressed his support by saying, “We stand with you. The entire country stands with you.”
The topic of cancer charities was also brought up, and the King praised them as “remarkable.”
Since announcing that he had begun outpatient treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer just over two weeks ago, he has continued to deal with his red boxes of state papers behind the scenes, and has been seen attending Sandringham church services.
Prior to his meeting with the prime minister, he conducted a face-to-face meeting of the Privy Council at the royal residence. Those in attendance included Penny Mordaunt, the Lord President of the Council, and several other ministers who are also members of the Privy Council.
In the past, it has been customary for the King and Privy Counsellors to remain standing during meetings as a matter of etiquette. However, Buckingham Palace has not made a statement on whether this protocol was followed during this afternoon’s meeting.
Shortly after, he had a meeting with Mr. Sunak. This meeting took place just one day after the Prince of Wales, the King’s son and next in line to the throne, made a bold appeal for peace in Gaza, possibly stirring up controversy.
In the past 17 months, Charles has become king and encountered challenges in 2024. He spent three nights in the hospital for a procedure to address an enlarged prostate, but it was during this time that doctors discovered his cancer, which was not related to prostate cancer.
In the meantime, the Princess of Wales, his daughter-in-law, is recuperating from a significant abdominal surgery. However, she is not anticipated to resume her official responsibilities until after Easter.
Source: independent.co.uk