King Charles III has expressed “profound personal sorrow” over Britain’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, describing the period as a shameful chapter of history that fills his heart with horror.

Addressing the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua, the King acknowledged the lasting impact of slavery on Commonwealth nations and called for greater cooperation to address historical injustices.

“The transatlantic trade in enslaved persons still casts a shadow over these islands, and other members of our Commonwealth,” he said.

“As I have said before, that shameful chapter of history is one that fills my heart with horror and my soul with the most profound personal sorrow.”

Charles said that while the past cannot be changed, its lessons should guide efforts to build stronger partnerships and address historical wrongs.

“We cannot change the actions of those who came before us. We can, however, learn from the past,” he said, adding that “evil need not have the last word”.

The monarch said his growing understanding of history had strengthened his commitment to finding ways for Commonwealth countries to work together in addressing the consequences of slavery.

He identified improved access to education, investment in jobs and economic opportunities, increased intra-Commonwealth trade and climate resilience as areas where cooperation could help address historical injustices.

His remarks come amid renewed calls for Britain to formally apologise for its role in the slave trade.

UK Labour politician Andy Burnham recently indicated he would be open to the King issuing a formal apology to the Commonwealth, a position firmly opposed by the Conservative Party.

Security around the conference centre was tight but some protestors had gathered along the roads surrounding the site ahead of the King's arrival, holding placards and wearing T-shirts which read: 'Crimes against humanity could never be legal. Apologise now'; 'You say you regret so apologise. Reparatory justice now'; and 'Apologise for the greatest crime against humanity and let's have reparatory justice.'

The transatlantic slave trade, which saw millions of Africans forcibly transported to the Americas and the Caribbean, remains a contentious issue in relations between Britain and several Commonwealth nations, many of which have called for reparations and a formal acknowledgement of historical responsibility.