Prince William has addressed the “abhorrent” slavery that used to take place in Jamaica during his tour of the Caribbean with wife Kate Middleton.
The pair arrived in Jamaica on Tuesday 22 March, and have since attended a black tie dinner at the official residence of the Governor-General of the country.
For the event, mum-of-three Kate, 40, donned a beautiful off-the-shoulder green gown with ruffle retailing, as William, 39, wore a black suit and bowtie.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were all smiles as they posed for photos with Governor General of Jamaica Sir Patrick Allen and his wife, Patricia.
Later on in the evening, William gave a speech where he addressed his “profound sorrow” over the slave trade.
The Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 formally ended slavery in Jamaica in August 1834.
“Slavery was abhorrent. And it should never have happened,” he said.
He continued: “While the pain runs deep, Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage and fortitude.
“The strength and shared sense of purpose of the Jamaican people, represented in your flag and motto, celebrate an invincible spirit.”
He also addressed the ongoing war going on in Ukraine.
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William said: “Over the decades, Jamaica has witnessed huge change.
“But what hasn’t changed is the irrefutable Jamaican belief in upholding democracy and working together with other nations in support of peace, security and international law.
“Prime Minister, your strong statement condemning the invasion of Ukraine is testament to that.
“Catherine and I were deeply moved by the plight of the Jamaican students who have recently returned safely from Ukraine.”
“Their experiences are a reminder of the terrifying toll and inequality of war and conflicts across the world, which we must never forget,” William went on.
“Anniversaries are also a moment for reflection, particularly this week with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
“I strongly agree with my father, The Prince of Wales, who said in Barbados last year that the appalling atrocity of slavery forever stains our history.
“I want to express my profound sorrow.”
William’s comments come afterhe and Kate were met with protestsupon their arrival in the Caribbean country.
The protest had been arranged by human rights coalition the Advocates Network, which also penned an open letter to the Duke and Duchess.
In the letter, it was stated: "We also note that your visit is part of the celebrations to mark the 70th Anniversary (Platinum Jubilee) of the Coronation of your grandmother and the 60th Anniversary of Jamaica's Independence.
"We see no reason to celebrate 70 years of the ascension of your grandmother to the British throne because her leadership, and that of her predecessors, have perpetuated the greatest human rights tragedy in the history of humankind."
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