Kate Middleton is making a significant public appearance as she continues her recovery from cancer treatment. Alongside Prince William, they have been actively involved in welcoming special visitors to the U.K. This day of royal pageantry began with their meeting the Amir of Qatar and his wife.

A Royal Resurgence Amid Health Challenges

Early Royal Encounters

The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 42 years old, kicked off the day by being the first royals to greet the Amir of Qatar and his wife. King Charles was also present at Horse Guards Parade for the ceremonial welcome. However, Queen Camilla was absent due to lingering after effects of a chest infection.It was a momentous occasion as the royal couple arrived with the guests from Qatar at around 12:10 p.m. U.K. time. Kate, looking elegant in a coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and a hat by Sahar Millinery in burgundy, the color of the Qatar flag, also wore jewelry from the late Queen Elizabeth, including her Bahrain pearl drop earrings and Japanese pearl choker necklace.After stepping onto the platform, she curtsied to her father-in-law Charles, 76. The national anthem was played as Charles took the Amir to the center of the pavilion, and the Prince and Princess of Wales took their place alongside the party.

Carriage Procession and Further Events

Following the greeting at Horse Guards Parade, Kate and William headed back to Buckingham Palace in a carriage procession with Charles and the Qatari guests. The visit continued with a lunch and a viewing of treasures from the Royal Collection relevant to Qatar.On Tuesday evening, a banquet at Buckingham Palace was set to be a high point of the two-day visit. However, Kate was not attending due to her ongoing recuperation. Camilla, 77, will pose for photos at the dinner and then rejoin.Kate had been out of the royal spotlight for much of 2024 after announcing her cancer treatment in March. In her September 9 announcement of completing chemotherapy, she described it as a relief. She later joined the royals for major ceremonial events like the Festival of Remembrance and the Cenotaph Service.It is a busy week for the royals. After the state visit, attention turns to the holidays. On December 6, Kate, along with William and their children Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, will host the annual Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey.Ahead of the service, the palace issued a moving letter to the 1,600 guests, spreading a message of love. It emphasized the importance of love, kindness, and forgiveness during the Christmas season.