LONDON (AP) — This week, King Charles III is gearing up for a lively visit to Samoa, and he’s going to need some dance moves!
Freddie Tuilagi, Samoa’s honorary consul to the U.K., recently made a memorable impression at St. James’ Palace by showcasing a traditional Samoan dance while dressed only in a bark cloth wrap and a necklace that symbolizes the lineage of orator chiefs. King Charles, dressed in a smart blue suit and a neatly tied tie, couldn’t help but smile as he attempted to follow Tuilagi’s lead during the performance.
“He absolutely loves it,” Tuilagi shared after the demonstration. “He expressed a desire to learn the dance himself.” He proudly showcased his own dance moves again, emphasizing the joy of sharing his culture.
As the 75-year-old monarch prepares for his midweek arrival on the South Pacific island, Tuilagi warns him to expect more of the same cultural warmth from the 220,000 residents of Samoa. Villagers are enthusiastically preparing to welcome the king with decorations that express their appreciation for his visit.
King Charles, a prominent figure in the Commonwealth, is visiting Samoa for a gathering with leaders from the 56 independent nations of this organization. The main focus of the meeting will be the urgent issue of climate change, a cause that Charles has been advocating for many years.
Samoa’s islands are particularly vulnerable, facing significant challenges such as rising sea levels, warmer ocean temperatures, and more severe weather patterns as part of the climate crisis. Thus, the king’s visit is especially significant to the Samoan people, who are hopeful for constructive collaboration.
The visit has also piqued global media interest. Many Samoans are optimistic that images of King Charles and Queen Camilla enjoying the stunning landscapes and beaches of Samoa will attract more European tourists and positively impact the local economy. “It’s a chance to display our culture and our heritage, showcasing the pride we have in our nation,” Tuilagi remarked to The Associated Press. “Welcoming the king and Pacific leaders is a special honor for us.”
Tuilagi hopes his dance performance will leave a mark on King Charles. As a nod to his culture, he opted for traditional attire, which notably does not include a shirt, highlighting the joyful spirit of the Samoan way of life.
“It’s not every day the king gets to see a Samoan chief without a shirt at the palace!” he chuckled, emphasizing the unique charm of their traditions.
