Kate Middleton is carrying out a reduced program of engagements while she continues her recovery from cancer. However, she is back in the spotlight today playing a key role as Britain rolls out the red carpet for a State Visit from Qatar.

The Prince and Princess of Wales greeted Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his first wife Sheikha Jawaher at their London hotel this morning as their State Visit to Britain officially began. Dressed in a maroon coat and matching hat, the same color as the Qatar flag, Kate posed for a photograph with William and the Qatari couple. The two couples then traveled to Horse Guards Parade where the King was waiting with an assembled Guard of Honour for the official military welcome.

Kate, 42, is taking part in the State Visit today but is only appearing for parts of the day as she is beginning her return to work after finishing chemotherapy in September. Following the official welcome, she will join the other royals and dignitaries for lunch at Buckingham Palace. She is not attending the State Banquet this evening.

Also absent from parts of today is Queen Camilla, who Buckingham Palace announced yesterday has had to scale back her attendance due to an ongoing chest infection. She is not at the official welcome and will not take part in the full receiving line at tonight’s banquet. She will, however, be at the banquet itself and aides have emphasized there is no change from a diagnosis of a viral chest infection.

Town & Country Contributing Editor Victoria Murphy has reported on the British Royal Family since 2010. She has interviewed Prince Harry and has travelled the world covering several royal tours. She is a frequent contributor to Good Morning America. Victoria authored Town & Country book The Queen: A Life in Pictures, released in 2021.