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The much-anticipated royal visit of King Charles and Queen Camilla to Italy almost faced uncertainty due to health concerns. Originally planned as a State Visit to the Holy See and Italy, changes had to be made as the Pope’s health issues led to the postponement of part of the itinerary. Additionally, recent news of King Charles undergoing cancer treatment caused a stir when he had to cancel some UK engagements.
All eyes are now on the King as he embarks on his first State Visit of 2025 to Italy this week. Despite a brief hospitalization due to treatment side effects, a Palace aide assures that the King is in good spirits and ready for the busy schedule ahead. This visit, like previous State Visits, aims to strengthen bilateral relationships at the behest of the British government.
Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will welcome King Charles, who is known for his diplomatic skills. The visit will include significant events such as laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a State Banquet at the Palazzo Quirinale. The couple will also commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Ravenna from Nazi occupation and engage with local farmers.
This trip marks the King’s longest overseas visit since his travels to Australia and Samoa last October. Despite his cancer treatment, the King maintains a busy schedule, showing his commitment to his duties. As he heads to Italy, the royal couple looks forward to strengthening ties and celebrating shared values, history, and culture with the Italian people.
Camilla is concerned about him needing to take a break. “It’s difficult to get him to ease up on all the things he’s doing,” she mentioned while being filmed for an ITV documentary. On another occasion, she stated, “He refuses to slow down and won’t listen to instructions.” The King’s cancer diagnosis was revealed in February 2024 after receiving treatment for a noncancerous enlarged prostate. Buckingham Palace has not disclosed the specific type of cancer he is undergoing treatment for, except to confirm that it is not prostate cancer.
