DUCHESS OF DIPLOMACY How Kate charmed on Brexit mission to Europe
A LITTLE boy was overcome with an attack of shyness after meeting the Duchess of Cambridge during a flag-waving visit to Luxembourg yesterday.
Teo Schleck, three, the son of cyclist and former Tour de France winner Andy Schleck, presented Kate with a posy of flowers but seconds later buried his face in the shoulder of his mother Jil.
Kate met the youngster during the visit to promote Brexit Britain that saw her spend the day in the land-locked country which is holding national celebrations to mark the signing of the historic 1867 Treaty of London.
Brokered 150 years ago, the deal confirmed the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg’s independence and neutrality and led to the formation of the modern nation.
Kate met Teo in Luxembourg City’s Place Clairefontaine where she attended a cycling-themed festival and unveiled a mural to one of Britain’s greatest cyclists Tommy Simpson – who died while racing in the Tour de France.
Talent
The youngster’s mother Jil said afterwards: “Kate asked if he was shy. She was very nice – you can see she’s a mum.”
Kate’s second solo tour was billed as a Brexit charm offensive and it appeared to be working after a Luxembourg minister praised British “pragmatism” during a speech delivered during the cycling event.
The address by Francine Closener, the country’s economy, international security and defence secretary, gave a strong hint Luxembourg, where the EU Parliament has an outpost, might be ready to put differences aside and work for a Brexit solution.
She said: “The Luxembourg way of doing things is characterised by pragmatism, an ability to adapt, as well as a tremendous talent to build its partnerships with respect.
“There’s a capacity to listen to others, understand their needs and find a solution.
“Luxembourg shares the British pragmatism and the commitment to constant improvement.
“These common values serve as a long-standing basis for the strong political ties and the excellent business relations between the UK and the Grand Duchy. Those values are at the core of the ties built by many previous governments, and we shall continue to respect those values as our relationship evolves.”
Looking elegant in a powder blue coat-dress by designer Emilia Wickstead, 35-year-old Kate spent her afternoon in the capital on five engagements, including touring an exhibition of British artists.
She was joined for much of the afternoon by the country’s heir to the throne Prince Guillaume, 35, and his Belgian-born wife Princess Stephanie, 33.
YESTERDAY the Duchess of Cambridge, in the latest of a series of royal visits to European nations, was in Luxembourg. With Brexit on the horizon it is vital we do everything possible to maintain strong relations with our friends and allies on the continent. The Duchess, along with the rest of the Royal Family, has been playing her part superbly.