King Charles reunites with old friend in emotional meeting after decades

King Charles III met his old friend, Brazilian indigenous leader Chief Raoni Metuktire for the first time in decades at St James’s Palace on Wednesday, October 15.

The monarch, who has long championed environmental causes, invited the 93-year-old Kayapo chief during his “final visit” to the UK. 

In a touching video shared by Daily Mail’s Rebecca English, Charles was seen holding Chief Raoni’s hands as the two exchanged heartfelt words through translators. “I haven’t seen you for so long,” the King said warmly, to which the chief’s translator replied, “He’s been waiting for you a long time.”

King Charles nodded and said, “It’s been a long time.”

Chief Raoni, a lifelong campaigner for the Amazon rainforest and former Nobel Peace Prize nominee, thanked the King for “everything you do for Brazil and its indigenous people.”

He added that he continues to work for his people and hopes Charles will keep supporting efforts to protect the rainforest.

The reunion, filled with mutual respect and emotion, took place during a Circular Bioeconomy Alliance reception, a emotional reminder of the shared mission that first united the two leaders decades ago.