King Charles Shouts Out Prince William in Wales After Son Took on Monarch’s Former Title

The King emphasized Prince William’s connection to the country while speaking at Welsh Parliament

While speaking at the Senedd in Cardiff on July 11, the King, 75, said it brought him joy to see Prince William’s special relationship with Wales continue. King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the Welsh Parliament to commemorate the 25th anniversary of devolution from the U.K. government, and the monarch hinted at his eldest son’s connection to the country as the Prince of Wales.

It has given me great pleasure to see my son’s relationship with this special land continue, including returning only this week to Anglesey, Ynys Môn, a place which I know means so much to him,” King Charles said in the address, which he delivered in both English and Welsh.

“So, it is with countless special memories and particular pride that I am able to join you as we reflect upon the last quarter-century of the history we have shared, and which you, in your work in this Senedd, have the great responsibility of making,” he added.

The Prince of Wales has been the traditional title for the male heir apparent to the English throne since around 1301, and King Charles was thought to be the longest-serving Prince of Wales in history before his accession upon the death of Queen Elizabeth in September 2022. He used his first speech as King to announce that Prince William would take on his former title, making Kate Middleton the Princess of Wales like her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana.

Prince William did not have an investiture ceremony for his Prince of Wales position like his father did in 1969, when he was crowned by Queen Elizabeth. A royal source told PEOPLE that Prince William and Princess Kate were focused on “deepening the trust and respect of the people of Wales over time.”

William and Kate called North Wales home when they announced their engagement in 2010, and the future princess made her first official royal outing there a few months later. She christened the new Hereford Endeavour lifeboat in February 2011 as William watched on.

They remained based at a rented farmhouse through their newlywed years and after they welcomed their first child, Prince George, in July 2013.

A few months later, the family of three relocated to Kensington Palace in London when Prince William left operational duties with the Armed Forces, through their affection for Wales and its people has been clear during visits back since.