Cape Town – Prince William and Duchess Kate are embarking on a royal tour of their own.
According to a statement released by the communication secretary to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Their Royal Highnesses will kick off a five-day tour on Monday 14 October when they arrive in Islamabad, before concluding on Friday 18 October in the first official visit to Pakistan.
"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." the statement read.
While in Pakistan, Their Royal Highnesses will focus on issues ranging from climate change to the challenges facing young women and girls.
They plan on visiting programmes and seeing the work they're doing to empower young people to ensure they have the best possible start in life.
They will also focus on the complex security picture in Pakistan, and learn more about the "challenges and opportunities, both of the past and today", facing the country.
"The UK has been a key partner for Pakistan, and The Duke and Duchess will meet UK and Pakistan military personnel who are sharing expertise to improve security," the statement read.
The statement revealed that this is the "most complex" tour yet for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, considering the logistical and security measures having to be taken.
According to the royal editor at Harper's BAZAAR, Omid Scobie, Their Royal Highnesses will travel with a team of 14 to ensure everything goes off without a hitch, but Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis won't be accompanying them on tour. George and Charlotte have just started a new academic year after all at Thomas's Battersea.
Further details and a full schedule of the upcoming tour has not yet been released, but the duke and duchess did visit His Highness The Aga Khan on 2 October at the Aga Khan Centre in anticipation of their visit.
WATCH HIGHLIGHTS FROM THEIR ROYAL ENGAGEMENT HERE:
?? Watch The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge join His Highness The Aga Khan at a special event organised at the Aga Khan Centre @AKDN, ahead of #RoyalVisitPakistan later this month ???? pic.twitter.com/OEeYR0QqOg
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 3, 2019