Prince Harry Under Fire for Keynote Speech in China as King Charles Opens Canadian Parliament

Prince Harry has ignited a storm of controversy after delivering a keynote speech in Beijing just as his father, King Charles III, ceremonially opened Canada’s Parliament a rare moment of direct scheduling overlap that royal watchers and critics say underscores growing distance between the Duke of Sussex and the Crown.

Harry appeared at the “Global Youth and Technology Summit” in the Chinese capital on Monday, where he spoke about digital wellness, mental health, and the role of young people in shaping online spaces. The address was met with applause from attendees and praise in Chinese state media, which hailed Harry as a “visionary global leader.”

But the timing and location of his appearance have raised sharp criticism, particularly from within royal circles.

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Royal biographer Ingrid Seward, one of Britain’s most respected commentators on the monarchy, openly questioned Harry’s judgment and political awareness. “Does he even understand China’s human rights record?” she asked in an interview with Dobblog. “By showing up and speaking at this kind of state-approved event, he risks being seen as a useful idiot for despotic regimes.”

She added:

“The symbolism is terrible. While the King fulfills his duty opening Canada’s Parliament a key realm of the Commonwealth Harry is halfway around the world, legitimizing a country criticized for surveillance, censorship, and oppression.”

China’s human rights record including its treatment of Uyghur Muslims, clampdowns in Hong Kong, and alleged use of forced labor has been condemned by international watchdogs. Critics argue that Harry’s participation in an event so closely tied to Chinese government messaging could be interpreted as tacit endorsement.

The Duke, who now resides in California and operates independently of the Royal Family, did not address any political issues during his speech. His remarks centered on youth empowerment and online accountability, themes he has championed since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.

But even supporters expressed concern over optics.

“I admire Harry’s mental health advocacy, but this is naive,” said former UK diplomat Sir Jeremy Ford. “You cannot engage in these forums without understanding how you may be used for propaganda.”

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Meanwhile, King Charles received a standing ovation in Ottawa as he reaffirmed the monarchy’s commitment to Canada’s democratic institutions. The King’s visit is being hailed as a key effort to stabilize Commonwealth ties amid rising republican sentiment in several member nations.

The stark contrast between the monarch’s public duties and Harry’s high-profile and controversial overseas appearance has reignited debate over the Sussexes’ international activism and their relationship with the Royal Family.

Buckingham Palace has not commented on the overlap, maintaining its usual silence on the Duke’s activities.

However, insiders suggest the Palace was “deeply frustrated” by the timing and lack of coordination.

“Harry may be independent,” said one former aide, “but these things matter. You don’t want headlines comparing a King at work and a Prince on a questionable stage.”

As criticism mounts, the question now lingers: is Prince Harry’s global presence helping shape important conversations, or is it inadvertently serving the interests of regimes eager to soften their image through celebrity appeal?