Pakistan had been abuzz with anticipation ahead of the arrival of Prince William and Kate Middleton in the country.
Given the fanfare surrounding the royal couple ever since their marriage in 2011, it was but natural for Pakistanis to look forward to William and Kate’s maiden trip to Pakistan with excitement.
On Monday evening, the anticipation came to a head when Prince William and Kate Middleton finally set foot in Pakistan.
Read: Here’s What Pakistanis Should Expect From PM Imran Khan’s Visit To China
And while the anticipation continues around their engagements in the country, here’s a quick look at 5 random facts about the royal couple’s visit that you should know about.
1. It is the royal couple’s first visit to a Muslim country since 2012
As part of their royal engagements, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been to a number of countries around the world. However, this is the first time since 2012 that the two have gone on an official visit to a Muslim state.
2. Prince William and Kate Middleton were asked specifically to visit Pakistan by the UK government
As per People magazine, the royal couple was specifically asked to visit Pakistan by the U.K. government.
“What happens in Pakistan matters on the streets of the U.K. It is one of the most important relationships that the U.K. has.”
-A senior British official quoted by People magazine
3. This is the royal couple’s “most challenging and complex” visit to date
As reported in the Daily Mail, Kensington Palace has described William and Kate’s Pakistan visit to be their “most challenging and complex” engagement to date owing to a rise in regional political tensions and security fears.
4. Kate’s designer shalwar kameez
The elegant aqua blue shalwar kameez that Kate wore as she stepped out of the plane at Nur Khan airbase was designed by celebrated British designer, Catherine Walker.
5. The royal visit is just as important for the UK as it is for Pakistan
If reports by British newspapers are to be believed, Prince William is expected to reiterate the importance of Pakistan for the United Kingdom (as a friend and key ally) all through his 5-day visit.
While Pakistan hopes to benefit from the royal visit by promoting itself as a safe tourist destination, the UK government is urgently garnering international support as Brexit comes close to becoming a reality.
Do you know something that we don’t? Share your views in the comments below!