CANBERRA, Australia — On Monday, King Charles III and Queen Camilla honored fallen soldiers by laying wreaths at the Australian War Memorial located in the capital city of Canberra. This event took place during the couple’s visit, which coincides with their second full day in the country, and they took the opportunity to meet and greet numerous well-wishers present at the memorial.

At 75 years of age, Charles is currently undergoing treatment for cancer, resulting in a more condensed schedule for the visit. This marks his 17th trip to Australia and holds significance as it is his first visit as king, having ascended the throne in 2022. Notably, this is the first time a reigning monarch from Britain has visited Australia since the late Queen Elizabeth II did so in 2011.

Following a day of rest upon their arrival, the royal couple made their debut at a church service in Sydney on Sunday, continuing their itinerary with a trip to Canberra. There, they visited the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier prior to attending a reception at Parliament House that was hosted by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Despite the official events, the royal couple took their time as they departed the war memorial, engaging with the gathered crowd. Hundreds had turned out under bright skies waving Australian flags, while the weather forecast indicated a pleasant high of 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit).

Notably absent from the reception were the government leaders from each of the six Australian states, who opted not to attend due to their preference for an Australian citizen to serve as head of state rather than a British monarch. Prime Minister Albanese has expressed similar views regarding Australia’s potential transition to a republic, although he has decided not to pursue a referendum on the issue during his current tenure.

Looking ahead, King Charles is scheduled to travel to Samoa on Wednesday, where he will commence the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.