The Cambridges Land in Pakistan for "Most Complex" Tour to Date

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 detail and level of workmanship is a delight to see.

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.

The Duchess of Cambridge Visits Angela Marmont Biodiversity Centre

The Duchess of Cambridge made an embargoed visit to her patronage, the Natural History Museum, this morning to view the Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity and hear how it is championing and helping to protect UK wildlife.

Kensington Palace said: "The Duchess is a strong advocate for the positive impact that nature and the outdoors can have on our physical and mental wellbeing, and in particular for childhood development. Alongside its national programme of activity, the Natural History Museum aims to inspire its millions of visitors to act for nature. The museum is forging partnerships across the UK to empower school children, families and local communities to help protect the wildlife in urban areas."

The Palace added: "The Angela Marmont Centre (AMC) is a unique scientific hub located in the Natural History Museum that is dedicated to the study of the UK’s natural world. It helps public visitors identify their finds, provides vital training in wildlife identification, and leads research and citizen science projects that are helping to transform our understanding of over 80,000 species of wildlife known to exist in the UK today. With populations of many UK species declining, and a significant proportion threatened with local extinction, the AMC brings together a host of individuals and organisations all dedicated to building understanding of the UK’s wildlife, so that it can be better protected for future generations."

The centre operates a drop in centre where you can get assistance identifying specimens.

Access to the UK biodiversity reference collections of specimens and the London Natural History Society's library is also available.

Keen naturalists are encouraged to make use of the visitor space which includes microscopes and photo-stacking equipment.

Details of cranefly Tipula selene drawn by artist Dawn Painter using the centre's equipment.

Kate spent time with Museum Director Sir Michael Dixon as well as Head of the Angela Marmont Centre Dr John Tweddle and Head of Learning and Audiences Beth Stone who are jointly leading the charge to revolutionise the study of wildlife.

The Duchess saw DNA sequencing in action and a selection of plant and insect specimens from the collection.

A closer look at the butterflies Kate saw.

A representative from the Natural History Museum revealed attracting young people is top of the agenda. "HRH heard how the Museum is aiming to inspire the more than five million visitors it welcomes each year alongside its national programme of activity to empower people to act for nature. With the likelihood of a child visiting green spaces having halved in a generation, it has never been more important to excite young people about wildlife. The Museum is responding to this challenge by forging partnerships across the UK to empower school children, families and local communities to help protect the wildlife in urban areas."

A video from the engagement.

The Duchess showcased autumnal style in a berry and khaki look featuring a mix of high street pieces and repeats from her closet. I love burgundy, berry and warm red tones at this time of year. Kate's wardrobe has officially shifted gear for the season. The bag, shoes and jumper are a great combination.

Kate wore the £39 Warehouse Pointelle High Neck Jumper (with many thanks to HeavenQRF). The long sleeve sweater features a scalloped high neck and cuffs and a pointelle texture at the yoke. It's available in very limited sizing at John Lewis and Warehouse.

The Duchess teamed the jumper with a pair of £89 Jigsaw Culottes. Described as: "Cut from a lightweight fabric that forms a relaxed wide-leg, details include an elasticated waist, front slant pockets and rushing from the waistband to the hem." They are available at John Lewis and Jigsaw.

The Duchess wore her Tod's burgundy fringed pumps.

Kate carried her Chanel bag with enamel handle.

 And her Asprey Oak Leaf earrings.

In other news, the Court Circular records William and Kate met with Bill Gates yesterday. ITV News reports: "Mr Gates was there in his capacity as co-chairman and trustee of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The private behind-the-scenes meeting was not announced beforehand, but was recorded in the Court Circular – the daily record of royal engagements. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is the largest private foundation in the world. Mr Gates is estimated to have given away 35.8 billion dollars (£29.3 billion) to charity."

A reminder William and Kate's Pakistan tour kicks off on Monday. Just a few days to go...

The Cambridges & Sussexes Join Forces for Every Mind Matters

Ahead of World Mental Health Day on Thursday, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have joined forces to narrate a landmark three-minute film, Every Mind Matters, which was broadcast across several leading UK networks at 8.45 pm tonight. The campaign features a host of well-known faces including Glenn Close, Davina McCall, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Katie Piper, Nadiya Hussain, Gillian Anderson, Professor Green and Will Young. It was shown to an estimated 10.3 million viewers in what has been described as "a first for broadcasters".

William begins by saying: "Everyone knows that feeling, when life gets on top of us. All over the country, millions of us face challenges to our mental health, at all ages, at all intensities, and for all sorts of reasons. We feel stressed, low, anxious or have trouble sleeping. Me. You.

Harry continues: "Your brother. Your mother. Your colleague or your neighbour. Waiting, wondering, hoping, hurting. We think there is nothing to be done, nothing we can do about it."

Meghan adds: "But that is so wrong. There are things we can do. From today, there's a new way to help turn things around. Every Mind Matters will show you simple ways to look after your mental health."

Kate said: "It will get you started with a free online plan, designed to help you deal with stress, boost your mood, improve your sleep, and feel more in control."

Towards the end, Kate says "We can all benefit from taking simple steps to look after ourselves". Followed by Meghan "And help those around us".

People reports:

“When they heard about it, all four of them were really keen to take part,” says a royal source. “It is a really positive project, and all four of them have been involved and they hope it will have a huge impact.”

The mini-film was written by Four Weddings and a Funeral director Richard Curtis. A longtime mental health advocate, Curtis recorded the audio with each royal individually (you might recall the Court Circular recorded William and Kate's meetings with him on separate days last month). He also travelled to Frogmore Cottage in Windsor to record Harry and Meghan.

More from the Telegraph:

'The project, called Every Mind Matters, has been coordinated by Public Health England in partnership with the NHS and is endorsed by the Royal College of General Practitioners. Its website is intended to help people take simple steps to look after their mental health, including a five-stage quiz which then automatically generates a "personalised mind plan" including tips such as muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, taking exercise and keeping an anxiety diary.'

The National Health Service is backed by a number of mental health charities and campaigns including Heads Together. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "I want to put on record my admiration for the way the princes and the duchesses have contributed to changing how society in the UK, and around the world, think about mental health and their own bravery in speaking out about it. This is one of the most clear examples of them taking that lead and supporting us in a very important project."

The Times reports:

'Their answers will generate a personalised “mind plan” — five tips that PHE says are grounded in scientific evidence about improving mental wellbeing. Examples include getting off the bus a stop early to get more exercise and so make it easier to sleep, making time to chat to a friend to combat loneliness and setting aside time to deal specifically with worries.

The site is not for severe problems but contains a “panic button” that provides contact details for the Samaritans and other support organisations.

Videos on muscle relaxation and positive thinking also feature along with links to free online courses about overcoming stress and suggestions for where to get support for money, relationship and other worries. Launching the campaign, Matt Hancock, the health secretary, said: “Our health — both physical and mental — is an asset that needs to be nurtured. Every Mind Matters will benefit us all with an accessible tool to help manage our wellbeing at the click of a button.”

Visit the Every Mind Matters website here to take the quiz. I think often times so many can relate to putting themselves at the bottom of their list of priorities, ignoring stress, anxiety or worries even though they are affecting your mental health. The quiz is a means of checking your own mental health, assessing how you are, and offering options to help.

It's wonderful to see the royals narrating this and continuing their mental health efforts. The video was beautifully done, it was excellent to see an array of famous faces giving their time to support the initiative.

Prince George Jumps For Joy During First Aston Villa Match

It was a family day out as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took George and Charlotte to watch William's favourite football team Aston Villa play Norwich today.

Dressed in the teams claret and blue jersey, George appeared to have a particularly good time. William is an avid Aston Villa supporter and has attended a number of matches over the years. It very much appears George is following in his footsteps and is already an eager supporter. Recently Lioness Casey Stoney said William told her George has started to play football and he was teaching him it's a contact sport. He told her "George doesn't really like it when he's palming off and getting physical".

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More from Hello! Magazine:

'As President of the Football Association, William is unsurprisingly a huge football fan, even tweeting his approval of Liverpool's victory over Barcelona in the Champion's League semi-final this spring via the official Kensington Palace Twitter account, signing his tweet "W". 

William has previously explained why he supports Aston Villa, despite not being from the Midlands, telling Gary Lineker in 2015 that the decision dates back to his childhood. The Prince revealed: "A long time ago at school I got into football big time. I was looking around for clubs. All my friends at school were either Man United fans or Chelsea fans and I didn’t want to follow the run of the mill teams. I wanted to have a team that was more mid-table that could give me more emotional rollercoaster moments."

They were joined by friends including Princess Charlotte's godmother Sophie Snuggs. George and Charlotte were pageboy and bridesmaid at her wedding last year.

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Charlotte wore a red cardigan and one her signature hair bows.

George's reaction when Villa won 5-1 is absolutely priceless. 

Take a look at this video....

Classic! Prince George celebrating Villa’s 5-1 win at Norwich. ⚽️⚽️😂👍 #Boldmere #SuttonColdfield #avfc pic.twitter.com/bL6sknRmDm

— Boldmere Road 🇬🇧 (@BoldmereRoad) October 5, 2019

George memorably scored Kate 20 out of 10 for her Back To Nature garden. I think he's telling mum his rating of his first Villa match is right up there too :)

The Duchess wore her Barbour Longshore Quilted Jacket. The £159 piece in navy/marigold is described as "The ultimate utility jacket, this piece from Barbour is designed with a funnel collar to keep out the chill, exposed zip front fastening and doubled up pockets on either breast panel. She last wore it publicly during a visit to Fermanagh in February.

Earlier on, we discussed George and Charlotte's bridal party roles. They are set to resume them again for their uncle next year. Last night, news broke reporting James Middleton is engaged to French financial expert. Alizee Thevenet. The engagement took place last month, I imagine there's a good chance the wedding may actually take place in France. Congratulations to James and Alizee!

James Middleton confirmed the news during a chat with The Telegraph:

'James Middleton has revealed he proposed to his girlfriend in the Lake District last month and is still "pinching himself" over how lucky he is.

Speaking exclusively to Telegraph Magazine, Middleton said they were "a pretty relaxed couple", but revealed he had battled through mental health difficulties to find happiness.

If you're just stopping by, the post on the Pakistan press briefing can be viewed here.

The Cambridges' Pakistan Tour Will Be "Most Complex" to Date

With just ten days to go until the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's official visit to Pakistan, their Communications Secretary Christian Jones (a role held by Jason Knauf until recently when he was appointed Royal Foundation CEO) held a press briefing at Kensington Palace this afternoon. Normally this close to a tour beginning we see the full itinerary, with details of almost all engagements planned for the trip. Whilst reporters present know the itinerary, it is strictly embargoed for security reasons. Instead, information on events will only be made available on a day-to-day basis during the tour. The Duke and Duchess will spend five days in the south Asian country from Monday 14 to Friday 18 October. As expected, they will not be taking the children. George and Charlotte will be at school, and it is thought they will be looked after by Nanny Maria Teresa and the Middletons.

Mr Jones said the visit, which is being undertaken at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, "is the most complex tour undertaken by the Duke and Duchess to date, given the logistical and security considerations".

It will mark both William and Kate's first official visit to the country, and Kate's first Commonwealth tour in over three years. I've been long awaiting such a visit by the couple. There is something incredibly special about the monarchy's connections to all fifty-three Commonwealth countries: fond memories of royal visits dating back generations, a continuation to forging links and partnerships between countries, and a very important tradition of the Royal family being maintained. It's very much a celebration of the UK's links with that particular country which is why these trips are so important from the Government's perspective.

The links with Pakistan are extensive - the British High Commission in Islamabad being one of the UK’s largest diplomatic missions in the world.

Whilst the itinerary is under wraps, Christian Jones revealed core areas of focus:

'Whilst The Duke and Duchess’s programme will pay respect to the historical relationship between Britain and Pakistan, it will largely focus on showcasing Pakistan as it is today – a dynamic, aspirational and forward-looking nation. 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 1000km, and will take in Pakistan’s rich culture, its diverse communities, and its beautiful landscapes.

Throughout the tour, Their Royal Highnesses will visit programmes which empower young people, and organisations that help ensure they have the best possible start in life. Access to quality education, particularly to girls and young women is one of the UK’s top priorities in Pakistan. The Duke and Duchess are looking forward to spending time meeting young Pakistanis, and hearing more about their aspirations for the future.'

Climate change will feature heavily on the agenda. The Duke and Duchess will see first hand how climate issues are affecting Pakistan, and efforts being undertaken to combat the challenges presented. They will also learn more about the "complex security picture" in Pakistan and meet security personnel who will share their experiences. The 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."

Harper's Bazaar reports:

'William and Kate won’t be traveling alone. Flying with the couple on the Royal Air Force Voyager, a team of 14 will ensure everything runs meticulously to plan. Amongst the entourage are private secretaries Catherine Quinn and Simon Case and head of communications Christian Jones, with four other team members, two assistant private secretaries, two program coordinators, a palace assistant, an orderly, and a privately-funded hairstylist, believed to be Amanda Cook Tucker, for the duchess.'

During a visit to the Aga Khan Centre on Wednesday, William and Kate met with the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, His Excellency Mohammad Nafees Zakaria and Her Majesty’s Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Thomas Drew at Kensington Palace.

Victoria Murphy reports:

'Previously, the Queen visited the country in 1961 and 1997, and Princess Diana traveled there on a solo trip in 1991. When the Cambridges’ visit was first announced in June this year, the High Commissioner for Pakistan to the United Kingdom, Mohammad Nafees Zakaria, said the people of Pakistan “warmly welcome the announcement.”

He continued, saying that they "still cherish and fondly recall" the visits by the Queen and described the upcoming trip as a “reflection of the importance the United Kingdom attaches to its relations with Pakistan. The two countries enjoy historical links which both sides wish to strengthen further.”

The late Princess Diana visited Pakistan several times, notably supporting Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital which was built by the Imran Khan, who was married to Diana's dear friend Jemima Goldsmith. Mr Khan is now the Prime Minister of the country, and it would seem very fitting for William and Kate to retrace Diana's footsteps with the PM.

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In terms of clothing for the tour, I think we'll see a mix of Kate's favourites with pieces from Pakistani designers. I imagine there are at least a couple of formal black-tie events, which mean gown appearances. As green is the colour of Pakistan's flag, I expect we'll see it incorporated in the wardrobe, as we did at Wednesday's reception.

It's also likely we'll see Kate in a traditional shalwar kameez (a long tunic/dress worn with trousers). Diana favoured mixing shalwars with other pieces from her wardrobe during tours.

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The statement closed with: "Their Royal Highnesses are looking forward to building a lasting friendship with the people of Pakistan." Reporters Rebecca English and Omid Scobie received the itinerary today and described it as "fantastic". I'm very much looking forward to seeing it all unfold!

A reminder, Azuni London are offering readers an exclusive 15% discount code by using the code azuniduchess at the checkout. It applies to all orders (apart from clearance items) including the Kate earrings.

Will we see Kate before the tour? I think she may have an engagement with one of her patronages on Wednesday. I don't want to say too much as it appears to be embargoed, but yes keep an eye on Wednesday. In the meantime, have a lovely weekend!