Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie Becomes 1st Royal Member to Visit Baghdad

On Tuesday, the Duchess of Edinburgh made a surprise visit to Iraq to support the survivors of sexual violence in the country's conflicts.

The British senior working royal met President Abdul Latif Rashid, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani and other senior officials, political and civil society figures.

According to Buckingham Palace, the two-day trip was kept as secret for security reasons.

The trip was made at the request of the UK Foreign Office to support its women, peace and security agenda.

British ambassador to Iraq Mark Bryson-Richardson told The National: “This is the first visit to Baghdad by a member of the British royal family." 

Bryson-Richardson added: “The fact that this visit has come so soon after the coronation of his majesty King Charles III shows the importance and strength of the UK and Iraq’s modern partnership.

He highlighted: “The Duchess of Edinburgh is a passionate advocate for women’s equality and a champion of the women, peace and security agenda and the UK’s Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict initiative. Achieving greater equality for women and ensuring their rights are protected are vital to Iraq’s future prosperity and stability.”