King Charles and Queen Camilla have released a new statement as their official visits to Australia and Samoa end.

Their message, accompanied by a new photograph, expresses their thanks “to both nations for the warmest of welcomes and for the countless fond memories we will carry in our hearts for many years to come.”

The royal couple continues: “Even when we are far apart in distance, the many close connections that unite us across the globe and through our Commonwealth family have been renewed, and will remain as profound as they are enduring.”

The King and Queen have been touring Oceania since 18 October, their first Commonwealth realm tour and the first Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings they’ve attended since the accession.

In both countries, the royals carried out engagements related to their interests in the environment, literacy, survivors of domestic violence, and business; while also fulfilling their roles in the Commonwealth carrying out meetings with high-level officials.

In a speech in Samoa on his last night of the tour, King Charles spoke of the Commonwealth, saying: “Once again, the extraordinary diversity and enduring power of the Commonwealth are proudly on display… Together with the boundless potential of the countries and people who make up our unique and incredibly special organization, your friendships offer us the means to confront the challenges we all face, to serve those who are most vulnerable in our societies and to embrace the myriad opportunities before us.”