King Charles III became the first monarch to address Germany’s parliament, the Bundestag, on Thursday as part of his inaugural foreign trip since becoming Britain’s king.
Largely speaking in fluent German, the new sovereign called it a “great honor” to appear at the Reichstag, and said he was proud to be in Berlin to “renew the special bond of friendship” between Germany and the U.K.
“In the long and remarkable story of our two countries, there are many chapters yet unwritten,” he said. “Let us fill these with the restless pursuit of a better tomorrow.”
“Together we must be vigilant against threats to our values and freedoms, and resolute in our determination to confront them,” he added. “Together we must strive for the security, prosperity and well-being that our people deserve.”
The 74-year-old also praised the country’s support of Ukraine.
“Germany’s decision to provide so much military support to Ukraine is extremely brave, important and welcome,” Charles told the crowded chamber. “Even as we abhor the appalling scenes of destruction, we can take heart from our unity — in defense of Ukraine, of peace and freedom.”
Charles’ address was met with a standing ovation, which lasted nearly two minutes — something that is rarely seen in Germany’s parliament.
However, not everyone was as thrilled by the visit. Jan Korte, a lawmaker with the opposition Left party, said Charles’ speech wasn’t in line with Germany’s democratic values.
“A king isn’t elected,” Korte told public broadcaster ZDF. “He can obviously speak everywhere and is very welcome, including by me, but I think that particularly in the Bundestag, which is about representing the people, it’s not really appropriate to have a monarch speak.”
Following his appearance in parliament, Charles visited a Ukrainian refugee center, located at Berlin’s former Tegel Airport, telling some recent arrivals, “I’m praying for you.”