Kate MiddletonandPrince Williamwill celebrate the “unique bonds” that Britain has with Pakistan during their groundbreaking tour this week.
William is expected to tell a reception in Islamabad on Tuesday that the country, where the couple landed earlier today, can always “rely on the U.K.” for friendship and the economic role it plays.
The royal couple will cover 620 miles over the next four days and will visit the cities of Islamabad and Lahore — and also witness how parts of rural Pakistan are coping with the effects of climate change. William will tell an audience in the capital that the country has an “unbelievably diverse geography that spans deserts to glaciers and everything in between.”
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“We share unique bonds so it will always be in our interest for Pakistan to succeed. Not least because of the 1.5 million people living in the U.K. with Pakistani origin and the fact that the U.K. is one of the biggest investors in Pakistan’s economy,” he adds. “You can always rely on the U.K. to keep playing an important role as a key partner and friend.”
The royal parents left childrenPrince George, 6,Princess Charlotte, 4, andPrince Louis, 1, at home in London — but Kate and William made sure they dropped their two eldest off at school before boarding the plane to Pakistan. Wherever they can, the royal parents try to timetable their travel before any public event around seeing George and Charlotte off to school or welcoming them back.
Kate Middleton.Chris Jackson/Getty
The visit will focus on programs “which empower young people, and organizations 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 U.K.’s top priorities in Pakistan,” the couple’s spokesman said in a briefing before the tour.
“The Duke and Duchess are looking forward to spending time meeting young Pakistanis, and hearing more about their aspirations for the future.”
source: people.com
