Kate Middleton's double curtsy to King Charles and Queen Camilla during state visit
The Prince and Princess of Wales took on a big role in the visit
Kate Middleton made headlines on Wednesday (December 3) as she delivered a seamless double curtsy to King Charles and Queen Camilla during a ceremonial welcome for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and First Lady Elke Büdenbender.
The warm exchange was caught on camera and shared by Sky News.
Kate Middleton greets King Charles and Queen Camilla with double curtsy
As the royal party assembled for the state visit, Kate greeted the monarchs with poise.
Drawing her left leg behind her, she dipped into a graceful curtsy to King Charles. Kate then repeated the gesture just seconds later for Queen Camilla as she turned around.
In a sweet moment, Camilla smiled and blew a kiss to Princess Catherine, who responded with a friendly “hi” and a beaming smile.
Curtsying is a deeply rooted royal tradition, especially during formal state occasions.
Senior royals like Kate are not required to curtsy every time they see the king and queen. However, it is customary when meeting in a formal public setting, particularly if it’s the first time they’ve seen each other that day.
The royal family’s official website explains: “For men, this is a neck bow (from the head only), whilst women do a small curtsy. Other people prefer simply to shake hands in the usual way.”
Prince William has also been seen bowing his head toward his father and stepmother on official occasions.
German state visit
This moment came shortly after Princess Kate and Prince William welcomed the German president and first lady at Heathrow Airport.
The couple were all smiles as they greeted President Steinmeier and his wife on the tarmac, representing the king and queen for the first stage of the visit.
This followed the same protocol as US President Donald Trump’s UK state visit in September. William and Kate greeted Trump and US First Lady Melania Trump, before going to meet the king and queen.
The latest state visit marks the third of the year hosted by King Charles, and the first by a German head of state to the UK in 27 years.
Kate looked radiant in a blue coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and a Burberry dress.
After arriving in the UK, President Steinmeier and his wife then travelled to Windsor Castle for a full ceremonial welcome.
King Charles and Queen Camilla greeted the couple with a royal salute. The Household Division also played both national anthems.
Later, members of the royal family joined the guests for a private lunch in the Green Drawing Room. This was followed by a special exhibition of German-related artefacts from the Royal Collection.
The day will conclude with a state banquet hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla in the grand halls of Windsor Castle.
Senior royals, political figures, and dignitaries are all set to attend. Both the king and President Steinmeier are expected to give speeches celebrating the UK-Germany relationship.
Read more: Kate Middleton releases personal message ahead of Christmas carol service
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