King Charles III celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament
King Charles III recently commended the Scottish Parliament for thriving as he joined in marking its 25th anniversary. The monarch, accompanied by the Queen, donned a special tartan created in honor of his ascension to the throne as they attended a celebratory event at Holyrood on Saturday, September 28. The Daily Record reported that Charles was warmly welcomed by presiding officer Alison Johnstone and deputy presiding officers Liam McArthur and Annabelle Ewing.
Royal greetings and reflections on the Scottish Parliament
During the event, King Charles III and the Queen greeted the party leaders of Holyrood, including First Minister and head of the SNP John Swinney, Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, Scottish Green co-leader Lorna Slater, and Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton. Addressing the chamber, King Charles III praised the Scottish Parliament for its enduring relationship with the Crown and the people of Scotland, stating, “This place has not just thrived, but in doing so has borne witness to the enduring relationship between Parliament, the Crown and the people of Scotland.”
The King emphasized the Parliament’s ability to positively impact the lives of individuals, highlighting the values engraved on its ceremonial mace such as wisdom, justice, compassion, and integrity. He underscored the importance of maintaining values like hope, civility, and generosity of spirit in political discourse and policy-making, especially in times of polarization and division. King Charles III commended the six presiding officers who have faithfully served their country, championing these values consistently throughout their tenure.
Scotland’s unique place in the hearts of the royal family
Expressing his personal connection to Scotland, King Charles III shared heartfelt sentiments about the country’s significance to his family. He reflected on his grandmother’s pride in her Scottish heritage, his late mother’s cherished memories at Balmoral, and the special place Scotland holds in his own heart. From the diverse landscapes of the central belt to the rugged beauty of the north Highlands, King Charles III praised Scotland’s strength of character rooted in the diversity of its people, whose ideas, skills, and passions continue to inspire.
The King acknowledged the complexity of Scotland’s cultural tapestry, spanning from the islands in Ayrshire to the coastal communities, cities, towns, and villages across the country. He marveled at the Caledonian kaleidoscope that captivates all who experience its richness. King Charles III highlighted the profound impact Scotland has had on his family’s history, noting the significance of Balmoral as a place where his late mother chose to spend her final days, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of the Scottish landscape.
In conclusion, King Charles III’s visit to the Scottish Parliament’s 25th-anniversary celebration not only honored the institution’s achievements but also underscored the enduring bond between the Crown, the Parliament, and the people of Scotland. His reflections on the values of wisdom, justice, compassion, and integrity serve as a reminder of the importance of unity, civility, and hope in shaping the future of Scotland. As the royal family continues to hold Scotland dear in their hearts, the legacy of their connection to the country remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the Scottish people.