The UK press has reported that Prince Harry and fiancée Meghan Markle may attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in April, 2018
The UK press has reported that Prince Harry and fiancée Meghan Markle may attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in April, 2018.
The week-long event, taking place in London and Windsor, is due to be attended by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, but coincides with the Duchess’ due date for the birth of their third child.
Prince Harry and Meghan, who have attended a number of royal engagements since announcing their engagement, may step in as a royal presence at the Commonwealth event.
The Queen, as Head of the Commonwealth, and Prince Charles will attend and host several events during the week.
This year’s CHOGM is regarded as a particularly crucial one, with 52 heads of state attending the largest summit in its 25-year history.
Furthermore, as Britain’s exit from the EU on March 29, 2019 approaches, the presence of the royals is hoped to ease the UK into successful trade talks with other non-EU countries.
Commonwealth countries Australia, New Zealand and Canada have already indicated a desire to form free trade deals post-Brexit.
The Royals have a `soft power’ presence around the world, and the popularity of the new royal couple is hoped to build a positive vision of Britain and the Commonwealth during the summit and afterwards.
With the couple already expected to attend the Commonwealth Day service on March 12, 2018, the summit will also give Ms Markle the chance to learn more about the Commonwealth.
Meghan, who lived in fellow Commonwealth country Canada before moving to London last year, said she wanted to find out more about the Commonwealth in an interview following the couple’s engagement in November 2017.
On Commonwealth Day last year, UK Prime Minister Theresa May emphasised how vital the conference will be in deciding UK relations with the rest of the world.
“In hosting CHOGM, the UK is committed to working with all members not only to reaffirm these shared values, but also to re-energise and revitalise the Commonwealth to cement its relevance to this and future generations.
“As we look to create a truly global Britain, the deep partnerships that we share through a 21st century Commonwealth can help us strengthen the prosperity and security of our own citizens, and those of our many friends and allies across the world.”
