William begins Middle East tour

The Duke of Cambridge is beginning a four-day tour of Kuwait and Oman that will pay tribute to the historic ties between Britain and the Middle East nations.

Prince William is making his first official visits to the two countries at the request of the Foreign Office, and arrived in Kuwait yesterday.

Kensington Palace has said the duke is looking forward to the trip, adding: “Throughout the tour, the duke’s programme will pay tribute to the historic ties Britain shares with Kuwait and Oman, and will highlight strong links and cooperation in many areas, including education, the environment and defence.”

Kensington Palace said William would learn about organisations working to educate and empower young people, and projects providing opportunities for them to develop life skills such as leadership and resilience.

Today William will visit Kuwait City’s wetlands to discover more about the country’s ambitious plans to protect its natural environment.

The duke will have an audience with the emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Alahmad Al-jaber Al-sabah, at his Bayan Palace and stay for lunch.