Princess Kate LIVE: Kensington Palace issues statement ahead of royal's first trip
The Princess of Wales will arrive in Italy this afternoon for her first overseas trip since her cancer diagnosis.
The Princess of Wales will arrive in Reggio Emilia this afternoon and is feeling “energised and enthused” for her first overseas trip since her cancer diagnosis in early 2024, Kensington Palace has said. Eighteen months after the princess announced she was in remission, the visit is seen as an “important step” in the princess's recovery, as she throws herself into her early years' work with renewed vigour, with plans to “take it up a gear”.
“This is a huge moment for the princess,” an aide to the princess said. “There will be many highlights of 2026 but this being her first international visit post her recovery… this is a really significant moment for her.” They added: “I think it is only right that her first international trip since her illness is one that is focused on an issue that she is committed to championing for decades to come, and is a real issue that she wants to shine a spotlight on.”
Catherine’s two-day trip is centred on her work highlighting the crucial role a child’s first five years has on the rest of their life, and will see the princess learn more about the Reggio Emilia approach to education.
THIS IS A LIVE BLOG. PLEASE CHECK BELOW FOR UPDATES...
Read next
What has the Palace said about Princess Kate's trip to Italy?
The Princess of Wales will soon arrive in Italy to begin her two-day trip, which is her first overseas trip in over three-and-a-half years.
Eighteen months after Catherine announced she was in remission, the trip is seen as an “important step” in the Princess’ recovery as she throws herself into her early years' work with renewed vigour and plans to “take it up a gear”.
Though her team are mindful to find the right balance as she manages her return to work alongside her ongoing recovery.
An aide close to Catherine said: “This is a huge moment for the princess.
“There will be many highlights of 2026, but this being her first international visit post her recovery… this is a really significant moment for her.”
“I think it is only right that her first international trip since her illness is one that is focused on an issue that she is committed to championing for decades to come, and is a real issue that she wants to shine a spotlight on.”
They added: “She’s looking forward to being here, she’s energised, she’s enthused, she’s excited to see Reggio Emilia in action and meet the people here too.“She wants to look at other models around the world and really create a global conversation.”
The future Queen will later be welcomed to Reggio Emilia by the city’s mayor, Marco Massari, who will present her with the city’s highest honour in recognition of her early years work during a town hall ceremony.
Good morning
Good morning and happy Wednesday! Sophia Papamavroudi here and along with my colleague in Italy, Royal Editor Emily Ferguson, we'll be bringing you all the latest news about the Princess of Wales's trip to Reggio Emilia, which starts today.
Stay tuned!
