For her afternoon duties during the state visit, the Princess of Wales opted for a stylish outfit, likely designed by Emilia Wickstead.
Representing the King, the Prince and Princess of Wales warmly welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa at his London accommodation.
This marks the first state visit hosted by King Charles as monarch, and the first in the UK since 2019.
Last night, President Ramaphosa arrived at London Stansted airport.
The royal couple then escorted the President to Horse Guards Parade, where the Princess made her entrance.
Together with the King and Queen Consort, the Prince and Princess joined President Ramaphosa for the ceremonial welcome at the Royal Pavilion.
A royal salute was given, and the South African national anthem played, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also in attendance.
The event showcased over a thousand soldiers, around 230 horses, seven military bands, and nine military units from the British Army’s Household Division.
For more details on the visit, refer to this BBC story published prior to the welcoming ceremonies.
This event is akin to showcasing the finest dinnerware to impress guests.
The Mall is adorned with flags, and the day includes a ceremonial carriage ride, honor guards, and a banquet at Buckingham Palace.
The visit underscores a significant soft-power strategy, as trade with South Africa accounts for 30% of the UK’s total trade with Africa, amounting to nearly £11bn annually.
As the new head of the Commonwealth, the King aims to reinforce ties and send a positive message.
Additional photos and details of the Prince and Princess at the ceremony are available.
Following a private lunch, the royal family and President Ramaphosa viewed an exhibition of Royal Collection items related to South Africa in the Palace’s Picture Gallery.
The exhibition included a chess set gifted by Nelson Mandela to Prince Philip in 1996, viewed here by the couple and Dr. Naledin Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
President Ramaphosa was seen holding a photograph of Nelson Mandela with Queen Elizabeth II.
Today, the Princess donned a plum-colored dress, possibly an Emilia Wickstead creation, featuring a fitted bodice, peak lapels, an applied waistband, and a fully pleated skirt.
She accessorized with Gianvito Rossi pumps, a Mulberry clutch, and UFO gloves.
The Princess also wore Queen Alexandra’s Three Feathers Brooch, a symbol of the Prince of Wales, featuring diamonds and emeralds.
For further details on today’s jewelry, see The Court Jeweller’s article.
Additional images from the afternoon engagement are available.
For coverage of tonight’s state banquet, visit this link.
Videos from the event are available on the Royal Family Channel.
Additional video coverage includes the welcome ceremony and the carriage ride to Buckingham Palace.
More footage from the Royal Family’s preparations for today’s official welcome is also available.
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