Prince Harry has pushed back strongly against recent claims that his reunion with his father, King Charles III, was cold and distant. In a rare public statement released Saturday, the Duke of Sussex called the reports “categorically false” and accused unnamed sources of trying to damage his relationship with his father.

“The quotes attributed to him are pure invention fed, one can only assume, by sources intent on sabotaging any reconciliation between father and son,” Harry’s spokesperson said.

The reunion took place at Clarence House in London on September 10. It was the first time Harry and Charles had met face-to-face in 19 months. Early reports described the encounter as stiff, suggesting Harry felt like an “official visitor.” But Harry’s camp dismissed that version of events, confirming instead that the meeting was warm and included an exchange of personal gifts.

Harry reportedly gave his father a framed photo of his children, Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4. “While we would have preferred such details to remain private, for the sake of clarity, we can confirm that a framed photograph was handed over,” his spokesperson clarified. Notably, the picture did not feature Harry or Meghan Markle.

Inside Prince Harry and King Charles’ emotional reunion after 19 months apart

In return, King Charles gave his son an early birthday gift ahead of Harry’s 41st birthday on September 15. Their time together was short-lasting less than an hour-but insiders described it as heartfelt. “Harry started crying and it was very emotional for both of them. They really missed each other,” one source told reporters, noting that the pair shared hugs and tears during the meeting.

Harry’s visit to the UK wasn’t only about family. His spokesperson highlighted that the Duke enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and supporting causes close to his heart. “He’s obviously loved being back in the UK, catching up with old friends, colleagues, and just generally being able to support the incredible work of the causes that mean so much to him,” the statement read.

The reunion reportedly came about after Harry sent King Charles a handwritten letter expressing his wish to rebuild their relationship. Sources close to the royal family described the tone of the meeting as “genuine and positive,” contrasting sharply with the negative press. “They shared a long hug when they first saw each other,” an insider said.