The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's eagerly anticipated official visit to Pakistan began tonight as they landed in the Royal Air Force Voyager at Pakistani Air Force Base Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, located just a half hour from the capital city Islamabad.
The links with Pakistan are extensive, the British High Commission in Islamabad being one of the UK’s largest diplomatic missions in the world. William and Kate's communications secretary revealed: "'From the modern leafy capital Islamabad, to the vibrant city of Lahore, the mountainous countryside in the north, and the rugged border regions to the west, the visit will span over 1000 km, and will take in Pakistan’s rich culture, its diverse communities, and its beautiful landscapes."
Arriving after 9.30 pm local time, the Duke and Duchess were warmly greeted by officials including Britain's High Commissioner to Pakistan, Thomas Drew. Speaking ahead of the arrival, he said: "There is a real sense of buzz and anticipation. I knew this visit would be a big deal. I've always been struck by the warmth in Pakistan toward the Royal family and the fond memories of previous visits. But I confess I've been overwhelmed by the warmth and enthusiasm I've experienced already."
An arrival video.
Kate received beautiful flowers.
They were joined by a team of fourteen staffers including private secretaries Simon Case and Catherine Quinn, communications secretary Christian Jones, and four additional members of the communications team, two personal assistants, an orderly, two programme coordinators and a hairdresser, believed to be Amanda Cook Tucker. Members of the press also travelled with them.
For security reasons, the itinerary has been largely kept under wraps with details expected to be revealed just before engagements commence each day. We do know we'll see a focus on young people, education, climate change and opportunities to learn more about the "challenging security picture". Kensington Palace added: "As with previous overseas visits, the Duke and Duchess have asked that this tour allow them opportunities to meet as many Pakistanis as possible. Over the course of the visit, Their Royal Highnesses will meet a wide variety of people, including children and young people, leaders from government, business and the charity sector, inspiring conservationists, and well-known cultural figures and sporting stars."
Chris Ship reports:
'The security for this week’s visit to Pakistan, by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, will be the highest of any royal tour since the Queen’s visit to Ireland.
With 207 million people, Pakistan is one of the most populated in the world (about the same number as Brazil and a little more than Nigeria) and 96 per cent of them are Muslim. But the people are not wealthy. As measured by GDP per head – Pakistan is in the bottom quarter of the world tables
William and Kate will also use the visit to draw attention to the effects of climate change and how communities are ‘rapidly responding’ to those effects.'
More from the Telegraph:
'More than 1,000 police will secure the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in Pakistan next week as the couple begin a visit the country hopes will dispel its image as a terrorist haven blighted by violence. The visit will be held under unprecedented security for a trip by the couple, as they travel across the country in what Kensington Palace described as their most complex visit ever undertaken.
This week's visit is the first one to Pakistan, the Commonwealth's second most populous country, by members of the Royal family for 13 years.
Dr Farzana Shaikh, an associate fellow at Chatham House, said Britain mattered less politically to Pakistan than China or Saudi Arabia, but a royal tour would be a “feel good” visit. “It's going to be, as far a Pakistan is concerned, a further piece to put in place in repairing it's image,” she said.'
Whilst learning about the challenges the country is facing is on the agenda, this visit is very much about showcasing Pakistan as it is today, "a dynamic, aspirational and forward looking country". There will be cultural highlights and meetings with the President and Prime Minister along the way. Additionally, they are expected to follow in Diana's footsteps during the trip.
The British High Commission has done an outstanding job preparing for the visit and sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses as preparations were made.
The Duchess wore a stunning ombre turquoise ensemble by Catherine Walker. The bespoke look channeled the traditional shalwar kameez - a long tunic and trousers. I was very much hoping we would see Kate honour Pakistani dress; this Walker creation is sublime. The draped detail on the neckline and proportion of the dress and fitted trousers make for a gorgeous look.
As several of you have already noted, the look bears similarities to the shalwar kameez Diana wore in Pakistan in 1996. Diana's porcelain blue look was also by Catherine Walker.
Kate accessorised with a pair of £7 Beaded Chandelier earrings by Pakistan based brand Zeen (with thanks to UFO No More). You'll recall Kate chose a pair of their earrings for an engagement at the Aga Khan Centre earlier this month.
And the Zeen Cream Gleam clutch (with thanks to Innominate93).
The Duchess completed the look with her Rupert Sanderson Malory pumps.
We'll see engagements kick off properly in the morning. Whilst we won't have any details until tomorrow, reports suggest they will undertake engagements in Islamabad and meet with senior figures.
As several of you have already noted, the look bears similarities to the shalwar kameez Diana wore in Pakistan in 1996. Diana's porcelain blue look was also by Catherine Walker.
Kate accessorised with a pair of £7 Beaded Chandelier earrings by Pakistan based brand Zeen (with thanks to UFO No More). You'll recall Kate chose a pair of their earrings for an engagement at the Aga Khan Centre earlier this month.
And the Zeen Cream Gleam clutch (with thanks to Innominate93).
We'll see engagements kick off properly in the morning. Whilst we won't have any details until tomorrow, reports suggest they will undertake engagements in Islamabad and meet with senior figures.
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