CELEBRITY
Prince William to Take on Key Role in Japanese State Visit to the UK
When the British Prime Minister called a UK general election many events on the royal calendar were thrown into question, including the State Visit from the Emperor of Japan. But today it is announced that the visit will go ahead and will take place from Tuesday, June 25 to Thursday, June 27.
“Their Majesties The Emperor and Empress of Japan will pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom as guests of His Majesty The King from Tuesday 25th to Thursday 27th June 2024,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement today. The program will include the usual official ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade as well as State Dinner at Buckingham Palace. The Japanese couple will arrive a few days earlier, on Saturday June 22, and carry out a private program of events ahead of their official welcome.
The royal roles for the State Visit were also detailed by Buckingham Palace today as the working royals each take on different sets of responsibilities. Prince William will greet the Emperor and Empress on behalf of the King at their hotel on Tuesday morning before accompanying them to the official welcome at Horse Guards Parade. There, the King and Queen will formally welcome them before traveling with them to Buckingham Palace. Several members of the royal family will attend the State Dinner that evening, although details of the guests have not yet been outlined.