Prince Harry expressed sadness over no longer representing the Queen.

Following the reports that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle gave up their senior royal duties and HRH titles, Harry said he hopes this act of withdrawal will lead to a more “peaceful” life for his family.

At a Sentebale charity event in London to help orphans with AIDS, Harry said, “The decision that I have made for my wife and I to step back is not one I made lightly. It was so many months of talks after so many years of challenges. And I know I haven’t always gotten it right, but as far as this goes, there really was no other option.”

Queen Elizabeth II had previously stated that the couple choosing to distance themselves from Buckingham Palace complicated family affairs and made tensions thicker. But in her most recent statement, The Queen wrote: “I am pleased that together we have found a constructive and supportive way forward for my grandson and his family. I recognize the challenges they have experienced as a result of intense scrutiny over the last two years and support their wish for a more independent life.”

Harry and Meghan are expected to pay back the 2.4 million pounds that were used to renovate their home, Frogmore Cottage. The residence is located on Windsor Estate and was paid for with public funds. The couple will no longer have access to money from British taxpayers and are striving for financial independence.

“I’ve accepted this, knowing that it doesn’t change who I am or how committed I am. But I hope that helps you understand what it had come to, that I would step my family back from all I have ever known, to take a step forward into what I hope can be a more peaceful life. I was born into this life, and it is a great honor to serve my country and the Queen.”