King Charles described the transatlantic slave trade as a "shameful chapter of history" that fills him with "profound sorrow" while opening a Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda. He said the trade "still casts a shadow" over Commonwealth nations.
The King acknowledged he had "furthered" his understanding of the issue through "listening, learning and looking" and expressed commitment to "work in modern partnership to address the wrongs of the past with action for the future." He stopped short of issuing a formal apology, however.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, also at the summit, said he is open to Britain issuing a formal apology but ruled out financial reparations. Burnham said his government focuses instead on development support and help with debt issues for Commonwealth countries.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting gathers leaders from 56 member states, primarily former British territories. This year's meeting in Antigua and Barbuda focuses on "Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth."
The King and Queen are on a Caribbean tour that has renewed debate over Britain's colonial legacy in the region.