Taipei, Sept. 11 (CNA) Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) Saturday congratulated King Charles III on his ascension to the British throne earlier in the day, while extending her sincere wishes for the continued prosperity of the United Kingdom under the leadership of the new monarch.
In a statement, Presidential Office Spokesman Xavier Chang (張惇涵) said on behalf of Taiwan's government and people, Tsai extended her heartfelt congratulations to King Charles III's ascension, wishing the new king every success to continue the march of development and prosperity of the U.K. amid this "difficult time," referring to thedeath of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in the country's history.
The president also looks forward to seeing Taiwan-U.K. relations continue to flourish on the basis of democratic values and the existing framework of cooperation, according to Chang.
The former Prince of Wales became King Charles III immediately upon the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Sept. 8, but he was formally declared head of state in front of the Accession Council at St. James' Palace Saturday.
In his address following Saturday's ceremony, the 73-year-old said he was deeply aware of this "great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of sovereignty" which have now passed to him with his late mother's passing.
"In taking up these responsibilities, I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these islands and of the Commonwealth realms and territories throughout the world."
