Kathmandu, Feb 6: The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie, have arrived in Nepal for their first-ever visit to the Himalayan nation, aiming to strengthen the deep-rooted ties between the UK and Nepal.

The royal couple was warmly welcomed by Nepal’s President, Ram Chandra Paudel, at the Presidential Palace in Maharajgunj, where they signed the visitor’s book. Their six-day visit will focus on key areas such as youth opportunities, healthcare, gender equality, and environmental conservation.

Sophie was the first to arrive in Kathmandu on Tuesday, wearing an elegant satin floral dress by Mary Katrantzou, complemented by nude Jimmy Choo heels. Prince Edward followed a few hours later after concluding his tour of India.

As part of their itinerary, the Duke and Duchess will visit Ghandruk, a scenic mountain village, and attend the Attestation Parade for new Gurkha recruits at the British Gurkha Camp in Pokhara. Their presence at the event marks the formal induction of young Nepali service personnel into the British Army, reflecting the long-standing military ties between the two nations.

The royal visit will also include engagements with organisations supporting survivors of trafficking and gender-based violence. Sophie, a known advocate for women’s rights, will meet activists working towards a more inclusive society. Additionally, the couple will interact with young participants of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

Buckingham Palace highlighted that the visit will celebrate the historic UK-Nepal relationship, following in the footsteps of previous royal visits, including those by King Charles in 1998 and Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1986 and 1961.

Their arrival marks another milestone in the enduring partnership between the two nations, reinforcing shared values and commitments to progress.