King Charles Opens New Scottish Parliament Session
King Charles urged Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) to contribute to building a "fair and prosperous society" as he officially opened the new session of the Scottish Parliament.
The opening ceremony, rich in pageantry, poetry, drama, and music, marked the commencement of the seventh session of Holyrood since its establishment in 1999.
The day began with the Crown of Scotland being escorted down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle.
Following the arrival of the royal couple in the debating chamber, the celebration commenced with a fanfare performed by the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland brass ensemble.
The Crown of Scotland was carried in by the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon, escorted by the Lord Lyon King of Arms.
The mace, Crown, and Elizabeth sword were brought into the chamber in a procession that included three Team Scotland athletes preparing to compete in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow next month.
The Officers of Arms were accompanied by young people from various organisations, including the Scottish Youth Parliament, RNIB Scotland, and the Young Women's Movement.
Presiding Officer Kenneth Gibson's Remarks
Presiding Officer Kenneth Gibson delivered his opening remarks to an audience that included 65 newly elected MSPs from last month's elections.
In his speech, Gibson praised the Tartan Army for "showcasing the very best of our people on a global stage".
"They would be enjoying an extended stay in North America but for a couple of dodgy penalty decisions in the Morocco game," Gibson joked.
All the leaders of the main political parties attended the event.
King Charles' Address to the Parliament
The King then addressed the chamber to formally open the parliamentary session.
"From its proud history and its treasured customs to the remarkable beauty of its land, it is the warmth and spirit of the people of Scotland that leave the deepest impression upon us and continue to inspire admiration."
He noted that since his late mother opened Holyrood in 1999, it has stood as a "powerful expression of Scotland's democratic tradition."
He urged MSPs to demonstrate that debate could be "carried out with respect and courtesy" and that "disagreement is possible while honouring one's dignity."
"Everyone in public service should be seeking the good of the people we serve."
King Charles told the audience: "People across Scotland look for leadership and for practical action to help build a fair and prosperous society."
The monarch also revisited his environmental concerns, which he first raised in the chamber in 2024.
He told MSPs the planet's climate was "changing dangerously" and warned its biodiversity was being "seriously depleted."
The King greeted First Minister John Swinney before the ceremony.
First Minister John Swinney's Response
In response, First Minister John Swinney addressed the chamber, affirming that Scotland has the capacity to absorb and overcome every passing storm.
He called for co-operation and renewal, emphasizing that new politics is the foundation for new hope.
Swinney spoke in Gaelic, stating: "Our people need us to work together, to improve their lives to bring them hope. That is what we must now do."
Closing of the Ceremony
The parliament's piper, MSP Stuart McMillan, concluded the event with a performance in the members' garden of "Bonnie Dundee" and "A Hundred Pipers."
Following the ceremony, the King and Queen met local heroes nominated by MSPs for their "extraordinary contribution" to local communities.
