Returning to Work After Being Diagnosed with Cancer, British King Charles III Receives PM Rishi Sunak

King of England Charles III received PM Rishi Sunak. (Twitter/@RoyalFamily)

JAKARTA - British King Charles III was seen returning to work for the first time since being diagnosed with cancer, by receiving Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

The king welcomed PM Sunak at Buckingham Palace, London on Wednesday afternoon and shook his hand warmly. Their meeting marked the resumption of their weekly meetings to discuss government issues.

Although the King has stopped carrying out public activities while undergoing cancer treatment, he continues to carry out his duties as head of state.

Images from British news agency PA Media show King Charles III wearing a suit and tie, greeting Sunak with a wide smile and the two chatting.

"We all support you. This country supports you all," said PM Sunak, according to PA Media, quoted from CNN, February 22.

King Charles III replied, "I receive so many beautiful messages and cards. It makes me cry often."

They went on to discuss how King's illness had put a spotlight on cancer charities, with King describing the organization as “amazing.”

Prior to his meeting with the prime minister, King Charles III held a Privy Council meeting in person at the royal residence, which was attended by ministers including Council President Penny Mordaunt.

It is known that Buckingham Palace announced King Charles (75) had been diagnosed with cancer on February 6, saying he would step back from public duties while undergoing treatment.

The disease was identified after he was admitted to a London hospital for a procedure to repair an enlarged prostate last month, the palace said.

King Charles III is expected to continue getting his daily red box with government papers, so he can continue working on state documents at home.

Prince William, King Charles II's son and heir to the throne, and Queen Camilla are expected to be more involved in public to make up for Charles' absence.

Previously, the King also made his first public visit after being diagnosed with cancer, attending a church service with Queen Camilla at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, eastern England on February 11.

He had previously expressed thanks to the community for their support, saying it gave him the "greatest solace and encouragement."