Andrew Murdoch, the Governor, insisted it was apt for the Hamilton II Declaration to be signed before the new portrait of the King, an ardent supporter of conservation.

The historic document was put before a number of countries’ representatives at Government House and is a joint initiative between Bermuda and the UK to boost international support to protect the Sargasso Sea.

Mr Murdoch said: “For me it is fabulous to have this signed in Bermuda and in Hamilton, and it is lovely for this ceremony to take place under the shadow of the new portrait of the King.

“When he visited the island recently it was fantastic and a wonderful visit — he was briefed on this declaration, and when he went to the Aquarium, there was a photo of him seeing the creatures that live in the tank and the project being explained to him.

“King Charles is very supportive of measures to preserve the ocean.”

Mr Murdoch revealed how he had been part of the protracted talks to bring the Hamilton II Declaration together over previous years.

He said: “On a personal note, I was Director of Oceans when I worked in the Foreign Office and part of the initial negotiations for overseas policies.

“So over the years I was at conferences as part of the team to get it over the line. It was difficult at times, but to see that completed is personally very satisfying.”