Kate Middleton returns to work alongside William after cancer treatment as they greet Qatar royals
Kate Middleton returned to work alongside Prince William as they officially welcomed the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and his wife Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani at the Emir’s private residence on behalf of the King. It is one of a handful of official events that Kate, 42, has carried out this year after her cancer treatment.
Kate looked lovely in a stylish burgundy coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and a hat by Sahar Millinery. The jewellery she wore, including a pearl necklace, belonged to the late Queen. She wore her hair in a low chignon and was seen in conversation with Sheikha Jawaher, alongside William and the VIP guests inside the residence in London.
The Royal entourage then proceeded to Horse Guards Parade by car for the traditional ceremonial welcome where they were greeted by the King, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other high-ranking government officials.
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Following this, Kate is set to join for a private lunch at Buckingham Palace and enjoy a tour of the invaluable Qatari art on display. However, she will not be present at the grand State Banquet tonight, where speeches will be delivered by King Charles and the Emir.
Kate stepped back from her royal duties this year after she underwent abdominal surgery in January and then was diagnosed with cancer.
In a moving video released in September, Kate revealed she had finished her chemotherapy treatment, and spoke of how she was “looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months”. She added that her focus was “doing what I can to stay cancer free”.
Later this week on Friday, the Princess of Wales will host her Together At Christmas concert in Westminster Abbey. She will be accompanied by Prince William, their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, along with other members of the Royal family.
Palace insiders reveal that the heartfelt carol service will "provide a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives". The event promises to be an incredibly moving affair, made even more so by the Duchess's own health battles with cancer this year.
She will deliver the touching Christmas message to those gathered at Westminster Abbey in which she describes love as "the greatest gift we can receive".
Her thoughtful words, featured with the order of service for the event on Friday, will reflect on the overarching theme of the event: "This Carol Service is a heartfelt celebration of every one of you, and a reminder that at Christmas, and throughout the year, we must all shine for each other. Because in times of joy and sadness, we are all each other’s light."
In her heartfelt letter, Kate said: "The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences.
"Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear. The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope. It is this love which is the greatest gift we can receive. Not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives. Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times."
