King Charles III’s Commonwealth visit to Samoa will highlight climate change … and dance

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III needs to be ready to bop when he visits Samoa this week.

Freddie Tuilagi made positive of that when he visited St. James’ Palace not too long ago carrying nothing however a bark material wrap and a necklace traditionally worn by orator chiefs. Charles, in a blue go well with and punctiliously knotted tie, grinned whereas gamely making an attempt to comply with alongside as Samoa’s honorary consul to the U.Ok. moved by way of the steps of a standard dance.

“He loves it. He mentioned he desires to be taught the dance,” Tuilagi mentioned afterward, displaying off his strikes as soon as once more.

Tuilagi, who moved to Britain to play skilled rugby, mentioned the 75-year-old king can anticipate extra of the identical when he arrives within the South Pacific island nation on Wednesday. Villagers all through the nation of 220,000 folks have taken steps to brighten and present how a lot they admire Charles’ go to, he mentioned.

Charles, the symbolic head of the Commonwealth, is touring to Samoa for a gathering of high authorities officers from every of the 56 unbiased nations that make up the group. On the high of the agenda is the combat towards local weather change, a problem Charles has championed for many years.

The king can depend on Samoans to be receptive. Its islands are on the forefront of the local weather emergency, going through growing threats from rising sea ranges, warming ocean temperatures and extra intense storms.

The royal go to is attracting international media consideration. Many Samoans hope that photos of the king and Queen Camilla strolling on the islands’ breathtaking seashores will assist appeal to European vacationers and increase the economic system.

“It’s a chance to showcase our tradition, showcase our heritage and the way … proud (of) that we’re as a rustic,’’ Tuilagi advised The Related Press. “To host the king and the leaders of the Pacific, you recognize, the Commonwealth coming to Samoa is one thing particular for us.’’

Tuilagi mentioned he hopes his demonstration of Samoan dance and music will assist the king when he arrives. He notably hoped that he would make an impression since he wore nationwide costume, which incorporates leaving the shirt at house.

Suppose pleasure. That’s Tuilagi’s level.

“It’s not daily the king will see a chief from Samoa topless … on the palace,’’ he mentioned, chuckling.