May 2001 AP Footage of Then Crown Prince Naruhito Visiting Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako Return to Japan After State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II

King Felipe and Queen Letizia Sign Condolence Book

King Felipe and Queen Letizia signed the condolence book whilst visiting briefly the Ambassador of the United Kingdom's residence in Spain.

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde Poignantly Remember Queen Elizabeth II

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of the Belgians extended their condolences to the British Royal Family and the British people upon the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was an extraordinary personality. We will always keep fond memories of this great Lady who, throughout her reign, showed dignity, courage and devotion. Each of our encounters will remain etched in our memories forever. The United Kingdom has lost an exceptional monarch who left a deep mark on history. We extend our deepest condolences to the Royal Family and the British people. Rest in peace, Your Majesty, with your beloved husband.

Philippe and Mathilde

The Belgian Monarchy website also released the condolence statement in French and Dutch.

Jordan’s King and Prince Andrew Attend SOFEX 2008 Exhibition

King Abdullah II of Jordan officially opened the SOFEX 2008 Exhibition yesterday. SOFEX “is the premier international exhibition and conference that features the largest fully-integrated Special Operations Forces equipment and solutions in the world. Bringing together the world’s leading counter terrorism and homeland security manufacturers with high-ranking defense officials and government decision makers, SOFEX is a unique global gathering for showcasing the latest counter terrorism and homeland security solutions to combat today’s ever increasing security challenges.” The exhibition is being held at the King Abdullah I Airbase in Marka from March 31st to April 3rd.

Prince Andrew, as Special Representative for International Trade and Investment for the United Kingdom, delivered a speech at the exhibition. On Monday, he met with Jordan’s king to discuss bilateral relations and the means to strengthen economic ties between Jordan and the United Kingdom.

For more information on the SOFEX 2008 Exhibition, visit the official website.

Photos: Yousef Allan

Prince Andrew Travels Across the United States as Special Business Representative

The Duke of York embarked on a ten-day visit to the United States which began on February 6th. The Duke of York is a Special Representative for International Trade and Investment for the United Kingdom. He visited Florida, California, Arizona, Georgia and New York. Whilst fulfilling his business engagements in Georgia, he gave an interview to CNN reporter and anchor Hala Gorani. The prince returned to the United Kingdom on February 15th. Since 2001, he has traversed the globe promoting trade and investment for Great Britain after ending a 22-year stint with the Royal Navy.

Below is a clip of Prince Andrew’s interview with CNN reporter and anchor Hala Gorani.

Abdullah II and Rania Champion Peace in London

King Abdullah II and Queen Rania of Jordan attended a dinner in London hosted by Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his wife, Sarah as part of their official visit to the United Kingdom from November 6th to November 8th.

In his meeting with the prime minister, the king championed the strengthening of economic ties between the two countries; constituting a partnership with the G8 and G11 initiatives and the Middle East peace process. As the date for the Annapolis meeting with Arab states and Israel draws near, King Abdullah and Gordon Brown discussed the regional and international efforts for the peace talks and the support of international diplomacy to achieve Middle East peace.

Abdullah concluded his visit at the Royal College of Defense Studies where he spoke of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and his desire for “achieving a fair and comprehensive peace” in the Middle East that would “result in regional development and stability.”