King Charles warns Queen Elizabeth II would be 'deeply troubled' by today's world

The world "we are living in now," King Charles remarked, "would have really concerned" Queen Elizabeth II, as he made a heartfelt tribute to his mother.

Buckingham Palace has unveiled a very personal address from the King in celebration of what would have been Queen Elizabeth II's 100th birthday.

The emotional message, recorded in Balmoral Castle's Library in early April, kicks off a day of commemorative events across London.

The King’s speech launches the centenary festivities set for Tuesday (April 21) in honor of the beloved monarch who reigned for seventy years.

Given Balmoral's significance to the late Queen, who passed away there in September 2022, the recording from the Scottish royal estate holds special importance.

In his remarks, the King described it as a moment for his family to "ponder the life and loss of a Sovereign who meant so much to us all and to cherish anew the countless joys of her memory."

He spoke of how his mother's "fulfilled promise to destiny" impacted numerous lives across Britain, the Commonwealth, and beyond.

Though she experienced remarkable changes throughout her nearly 100 years, the King highlighted that she "remained constant, unswerving, and wholly dedicated to those she served."

The monarch also reminisced about lighter times, recalling "that delightful sparkle in her eye while enjoying a marmalade sandwich with Paddington Bear during the last months of her life."

The King acknowledged "many aspects of the present times likely troubled her greatly" but found solace in his mother's belief that "goodness will always triumph and a brighter future is always within reach."

He mentioned the late Queen's first public address at age 14, where she encouraged young people to help "shape a better and happier world of tomorrow."

King Charles voiced his deep commitment to this vision, urging everyone, regardless of age, to strive for "a 'better, happier tomorrow' – one built on peace, justice, prosperity, and security."

The King finished by reaffirming "my personal solemn vow of duty and service to you all," concluding: "God bless you, beloved Mama; you remain forever in our hearts and prayers."

Today's schedule for the Royal Family includes several key engagements celebrating the late Queen's legacy.

The King and Queen, along with other family members, will review proposed concepts for the Queen Elizabeth Memorial during a visit to the British Museum.

Afterward, they will host a gathering at Buckingham Palace as part of the centenary celebrations.

Elsewhere in the city, the Princess Royal will officially open The Queen Elizabeth II Garden in Regent's Park.