King Charles sends 11-word message to Prince Harry for his 40th birthday

Prince Harry turns 40 today

The Duke of Sussex spends most of his time in California with his wife Meghan Markle after the pair stepped back from royal duties back in 2020.

The pair no longer have an official residence in the UK after they were asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage last year.

Harry was in the UK for the Invictus Games in May, but it was reported that he failed to meet up with his father or brother Prince William during his stay.

However, the 40-year-old did see Charles back in February after the 75-year-old was diagnosed with cancer.

On the day of Harry's 40th birthday, Charles has publicly acknowledged his son for the first time in two years, as Sky reports.

"Wishing The Duke of Sussex a very happy 40th birthday today," the post shared to the official royal family accounts read, accompanied by a birthday cake emoji.

The message was accompanied by a photo of Harry sat down and laughing while dressed in a white shirt and grey suit.

The Prince and Princess of Wales also shared the post to their own social media account.

Ahead of his 40th birthday, a spokesperson for Prince Harry spoke to People about his priorities for the next decade of his life.

"The best gift I've ever been given is, without doubt, my kids. I enjoy watching them grow every single day and love being their dad," he told the outlet.

A representative for the Duke also spoke to BBC and echoed similar sentiments.

"Becoming a father of two incredibly kind and funny kids has given me a fresh perspective on life, as well as sharpening my focus in all my work," he said in the statement.

"Being a dad is one of life’s greatest joys and has only made me more driven and more committed to making this world a better place."

He added that he was "anxious" about turning 30, but feels "excited" about 40.

"Whatever the age, my mission is to continue showing up and doing good in the world," he said.