The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are going to Paris 20 years after Diana's death

Kensington Palace have announced that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will be making a short visit to Paris next month.

The trip, which will last for two days on March 17 and 18, will see the royal couple attend around eight engagements including a France v Wales rugby match and a black tie dinner.

The news comes at an apt time as it is almost 20 years since William’s mother, Princess Diana, died in a tragic car accident in the French capital.

Although the Prince has been to Paris for non-official visits, this will be his first official mini-tour since his mother’s death in August 1997.

Diana’s passing will be commemorated with a statue in Kensington Palace. Prince William and Harry, who commissioned the tribute, said in a statement: “It has been 20 years since our mother’s death and the time is right to recognise her positive impact in the UK and around the world with a permanent statue. Our mother touched so many lives. We hope the statue will help all those who visit Kensington Palace to reflect on her life and legacy.”

Kate’s much talked about wardrobe will surely be a hit on the upcoming Paris trip. After all, it is one of the most stylish cities in the world. If the Duchess follows her usual habit of wearing pieces by a nation’s designers, perhaps we could see her in some Dior or Chanel.

The short tour is thought to be part of the government’s strategy to use the young royals to stay on good terms with Europe and follows Kate’s solo visit to the Netherlands back in October.

The couple are understood to be staying with the UK ambassador to France, Edward Llewellyn. It’s not yet clear whether Prince George and Princess Charlotte will be accompanying the pair.

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