Princess Kate, the Princess of Wales, prepares to assume further royal responsibilities at today's significant royal event. At the same time, Queen Camilla will be absent from a key aspect of it.
Today, the royal family will receive the Emir of Qatar for a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, presided over by the monarch. King Charles will host Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his first wife, Sheikha Jawaher, for a ceremonial event characterized by grandeur in Whitehall, The Indepedent reported.
In recent weeks, speculation has intensified regarding the 42-year-old princess's involvement in the Qatari Royal Family's state visit this week. Princess Kate, who has recently completed cancer treatment, will perform her annual charity carol concert at Westminster Abbey on Friday, an event that has been a staple of the royal calendar in recent years.
Last week, it was reported that Princess Kate would accompany Prince William in welcoming guests to their property before attending a formal reception at Horse Guards Parade. It has now been disclosed that Princess Kate will attend a luncheon with King Charles' guests following her carriage ride back to Buckingham Palace, as per The Daily Mail.
After lunch, visiting chiefs of state customarily observe a little display of artifacts linked to their nation's rapport with the U.K. Princess Kate will participate in the royal entourage accompanying the Emir and his spouse in the palace's picture gallery for the occasion. Nevertheless, Princess Kate will not be at the magnificent state supper the King throws in the palace ballroom that evening.
A royal insider indicated that Princess Kate is optimistic about the future and eagerly anticipates representing the royal family during the state visit and beyond. Her employment has consistently served as a significant source of rejuvenation as she remains focused on her recovery, progressing toward the year's conclusion and beyond.
Queen Camilla will be absent from this morning's events, having withdrawn on Monday evening from the official open-air reception at Horse Guards Parade and the carriage journey back to Buckingham Palace due to residual effects of a recent viral chest infection. Queen Camilla will subsequently join the royal party for a private luncheon with the Emir and his wife and participate in everything but one aspect of the evening state banquet at Buckingham Palace held in honor of the Emir.
Medical professionals have advised Queen Camilla, 77, to prioritize rest and complete recovery due to the persistent consequences of the illness she contracted a month ago during her extensive journey to Australia and Samoa, which include reduced energy levels, The Mirror reported.
After lunch, she anticipates viewing a show of Qatari antiques in the palace's picture gallery with her husband, the Waleses, and the Emir. At the commencement of the royal banquet, she will pose for a group photograph but take a brief respite before dinner while guests are welcomed in a reception line. No significant alterations are anticipated in her schedule for the remainder of the week; however, Queen Camilla has been counseled by her medical staff to approach each day individually.
Sheikh Tamim, 44, received his education in Britain, attending the Sherborne and Harrow public schools, and subsequently graduated from the Sandhurst military academy.
On Wednesday, the concluding day of the two-day visit, the Emir will tour Sandhurst before proceeding to the Palace to formally bid farewell to the King and Queen, with Camilla anticipated to be there. Sheikh Tamim will visit Downing Street to have bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Qatar, a wealthy Gulf state, serves as a pivotal mediator in the Israel-Hamas conflict, and rumors indicate that the government aims to finalize a free-trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council. The nation has encountered reproach for its human rights record, specifically the maltreatment of migrant laborers during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the criminalization of same-sex unions, and the discrimination against women.
Royal observers and detractors have expressed their opinions online.
“Kate’s resilience shines. It’s great to see her stepping up while balancing health and duty!” one netizen said. “Qatar’s state visit highlights its global role, but human rights concerns can’t be ignored," another X user shared.
“Camilla resting is smart. The monarchy needs her at her best for the busy holiday season," a third source stated. “Why are we welcoming leaders from nations with appalling human rights records? Priorities matter!” a fourth netizen commented.
“Kate’s work ethic is inspiring, but the spotlight on Qatar’s policies is overdue," a royal fan retorted. “This visit could redefine U.K.-Qatar relations. Watching for outcomes on trade and diplomacy," another X user added.
Business Times has reached out to Princess Kate and Queen Camilla for comments.
