Reports surrounding the coronation of Charles III reveal a carefully curated guest list and the diplomatic considerations behind it. Several nations were not extended invitations to the Westminster Abbey ceremony, a decision underscored by coverage from Reuters. Among those skipped were Russia, Belarus, and Iran, signaling a deliberate shift in attendance for the historic event.
Other countries that did not receive invitations to participate include Myanmar, Syria, Afghanistan, and Venezuela. The absence of leaders from these regions points to a broader strategy of engagement and diplomacy that accompanies a coronation of this magnitude.
In contrast, invitations were issued to the heads of administration or their designated representatives for overseas territories, alongside nations with which Britain maintains favorable diplomatic ties. Invitations were also sent to the heads of diplomatic services in countries such as North Korea and Nicaragua, indicating a wide spectrum of formal recognition and outreach across different regions.
In total, about 2,200 guests were invited to the ceremony, a number that encompassed heads of state and members of royal families from around the world. Among the notable attendees, First Lady Jill Biden represented the United States, while Vice President Han Zheng attended on behalf of China, reflecting the ceremony’s blend of ceremonial tradition and contemporary diplomacy.
Earlier reporting noted that the President of Switzerland was anticipated to be among the guests at Charles III’s coronation, illustrating how the event attracts a diverse lineup of international figures beyond the closest allied states.