Mélanie Faure 8:03 p.m., September 09, 2022

King Charles III gave his first-ever televised address on Friday, in which he expressed his commitment to the British people and his new responsibilities.

The new king pledged to serve "with loyalty, respect and love" throughout his life, as his mother Queen Elizabeth II had done before him.

King Charles III promised on Friday to serve the British all his life, taking over the pledge made by his late mother Elizabeth II on her 21st birthday.

"I renew before you this commitment to lifelong service," Charles said in his first televised address as sovereign, calling Elizabeth II an "inspiration and example" to him and his family.

"The role and duties of the monarchy persist. (...) I solemnly pledge myself today for the time given to me to apply the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation. Wherever you live in the UK, or in territories around the world, regardless of your background or beliefs, I will serve you with loyalty, respect and love as I have throughout my life."

"My life will change"

Charles spoke of this new page of his life which is now being written, by acceding to the British throne.

"Of course, my life will change now that I take on new responsibilities. I will no longer be able to devote so much time and energy to the charities for which I devote myself so much. But I know that this work will continue in the hands of trust others."

"It's also a time of change for my family," he added, mentioning his wife Camilla, who became queen consort - wife of a king.

A thought for his children, William and Harry

The one who held the title of Prince of Wales recorded his speech sitting behind a desk on which sat the photo of Elizabeth II.

If he mentioned his commitment as the new king, he did not forget to have a thought for his children, Prince William who recovers his royal title of Duke of Cornwall as heir, but also Prince Harry.

Charles expressed his "love" for his son and his wife, Meghan Markle, who have lived in the United States since 2020. It is in California that they are raising their children, Archie and Lilibet - the latter's first name being a tribute to the Queen.

>> READ ALSO - 

VIDEOS - Elizabeth II, a sovereign who loved France

Charles ended his address with a tender message to Queen Elizabeth II: "And to my darling mum, you who are on your last journey to join my dear late dad, I would simply say this: thank you. Thank you for your love and your devotion for our family, and the families of the nations you have diligently served all these years."