Princess Charlene welcomes Sophie and Edward to Monaco as royals speak of ‘strong friendship’

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have been in Monaco and Sophie caught up with an old friend, Princess Charlene.

The two women have known each other for several years and looked to be getting on famously as they enjoyed a new meeting, this time at the Prince’s Palace in Monaco.

Edward and Sophie were in the Principality for a dinner in honour of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Edward, who became Duke of Edinburgh in March 2023, is President of the scheme and has been praised for his extensive work in promoting the awards which encourage young people to develop a wide range of skills.

The stop at the Prince’s Palace came after a quick hop from London to Nice for Edward and Sophie who then made their way to Monte Carlo.

The Grimaldis shared a photo of the meeting between the two couples on their social media with the four posing for the camera in the famous courtyard of the palace which was the setting for Albert and Charlene’s religious wedding in 2011.

Edward and Sophie, then Earl and Countess of Wessex, attended that ceremony. The couple have met up with Charlene at several other royal weddings while they also hosted the Monaco royals for an evening out when they arrived in London ahead of the Coronation of King Charles in 2023.

Sharing the photo, the Prince’s Palace said the latest meeting reflected the ”bonds of respect and friendship between Monaco and the United Kingdom.”

The Duchess of Edinburgh chose a relaxed summer outfit for the meeting with a light, floral print blouse paired with white trousers and espadrilles. Princess Charlene chose an on trend pale brown trouser suit with black accessories.

Prince Albert and the Duke of Edinburgh later headed to Monaco’s famous Yacht Club for a gala event in support of the DofE Awards.