In first official visit, British royal couple ‘look forward to build a lasting friendship’ with Pakistan

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton, have said they "hope to build a lasting friendship with the people of Pakistan" during their first visit to the country that will begin on October 14.

"The ties of the United Kingdom with Pakistan are extensive, and Their Royal Highnesses hope to build a lasting friendship with the people of Pakistan," a statement from the spokesman for the royal couple read on Friday.

During the course of their visit, Prince William and Kate "will respect the historical relationship between Britain and Pakistan", but the main focus will continue to be "to show Pakistan as it is today: a dynamic, aspirational and forward-looking nation" said the statement.

The booklet, published by Kensington Palace, currently the official residence of the Duke and Duchess, said the tour will encompass "the modern and leafy capital Islamabad, the vibrant city of Lahore, the mountainous landscape of the north and the rugged border regions of the West".

"The visit will cover more than 1000 km and will cover the rich culture of Pakistan, its diverse communities and its beautiful landscapes," he added.

During their visit, the royal couple will also interact with organizations "that empower young people and ensure they have the best possible start in life."

"Access to quality education, particularly for girls and young women, is one of the UK's top priorities in Pakistan," according to the statement.

He said the Duke and Duchess hope to spend time with the young Pakistanis from whom they wish to hear about their aspirations for the future.

The royal couple have requested that they be given ample opportunities to meet "as many Pakistanis as possible."

They are expected to meet with "a wide variety of people, including children and youth, government leaders, businesses and the charity sector, inspirational conservationists and cultural figures and known sports stars," the statement said.

Another key area of ​​focus during the trip will be climate change. Prince William and Kate "are eager to learn more about the problems of climate change that affect Pakistan and our world, and the positive work that is being undertaken to combat these challenges."

They will also "spend time understanding the complex image of security in Pakistan." In this regard, meetings will be held with military personnel from the United Kingdom and Pakistan "who share experiences to improve security."

William and Kate's visit to Pakistan was first announced at the end of June. It is the first real trip to the country in more than a decade.

As a precursor to the trip to Pakistan, the two were received Wednesday by Prince Karim Aga Khan at the Aga Khan Center in Kings Cross in London, where they engaged with members of the Pakistani community.