As per the Leaders Asia sources, Catherine, Princess of Wales, played a key role in welcoming the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his wife, Sheikha Jawaher, during their state visit to the UK on Tuesday. However, Queen Camilla was notably absent at the start of the proceedings due to lingering effects of a chest infection, later revealed to have been pneumonia.
Kate, alongside her husband, Prince William, greeted the Qatari royals before heading to Horse Guards Parade for the ceremonial welcome. They were joined by King Charles III at Whitehall, where the King and the Emir inspected an honor guard. Following the military display, the group returned to Buckingham Palace for a formal lunch, traveling in a traditional carriage procession.
The Princess of Wales looked elegant in a burgundy coat and matching headpiece, marking her most prominent royal engagement since completing chemotherapy earlier this year. Her participation is seen as a significant step in her recovery.
While Kate won’t be attending the state banquet on Tuesday evening, King Charles and the Emir are expected to deliver speeches at the event, attended by around 150 VIPs.
According to the Leaders Asia sources, Queen Camilla, still recovering, greeted the Qatari royals later at Buckingham Palace but is limiting her appearances. She revealed that the chest infection she contracted after a recent overseas tour was a form of pneumonia, which has left her fatigued. Her doctors have advised her to take it easy, resulting in adjustments to her schedule.
On Wednesday, the Emir is set to visit the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where he studied, and meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street.
This state visit underscores the enduring ties between the UK and Qatar, with the royal family’s participation reflecting their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and cultural bonds despite personal health challenges.
