Court Circular: September 18, 2024

On September 18, 2024, significant diplomatic communications took place involving His Majesty the King. The Hon Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, engaged in a telephone conversation with the King, indicating ongoing diplomatic relations between the two nations. Following this discussion, the King held a meeting via telephone with the Baroness Scotland of Asthal, who serves as the Commonwealth Secretary-General, highlighting the importance of Commonwealth ties and collaboration. Later in the day, the King attended a ceremonial event known as Beating Retreat, performed by the Balaklava Company of The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, at Balmoral Castle. This event is a traditional military ceremony that showcases the discipline and skill of the regiment, reinforcing the ceremonial role of the monarchy in British military traditions. In addition to these engagements, Mr. Alistair Harrison, the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, visited Mr. Thani Thongphakdi, the outgoing Ambassador from the Kingdom of Thailand, to bid farewell as he relinquished his diplomatic post. This visit underscores the ongoing diplomatic relationships and the formalities involved in the transition of ambassadors. These events reflect the active role of the monarchy in fostering international relations and maintaining ceremonial traditions, while also emphasizing the importance of communication and collaboration within the Commonwealth and with other nations.