Prince Charles and Camilla depart Jordan for Egypt as the third day of their Middle East tour begins

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The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall became the royals in the ruins, as they were shown around the Great Pyramids of Giza today during the first day of their visit to Egypt.

Charles, 73, and Camilla, 74, walked arm in arm as they were given a personal tour around one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, as the sun slowly set behind them over the desert. Following this, they then proceeded to tour the Sphinx. 

The royal couple arrived in Egypt today for the next leg of their four-day tour of the Middle East after departing from Jordan earlier this morning, where they had spent the last two days. 

They started their day by meeting the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo.

Looking elegant in a cool Anna Valentine tunic, trousers and flowing white headscarf, Camilla, 74, who went barefoot, then arrived at Al Azhar Mosque with her equally sophisticated husband, Charles, 73.   

A royal wonder of the world! Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured) were all smiles as they arrived at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo on the first day of their Egypt tour

A royal wonder of the world! Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured) were all smiles as they arrived at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo on the first day of their Egypt tour

A royal wonder of the world! Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured) were all smiles as they arrived at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo on the first day of their Egypt tour

Seeing the sights! The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

Seeing the sights! The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

Seeing the sights! The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

In the evening, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall attended a reception at 9 Pyramid Lounge. Pictured: Charles with Dr Khaled Al Anani, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, right

In the evening, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall attended a reception at 9 Pyramid Lounge. Pictured: Charles with Dr Khaled Al Anani, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, right

In the evening, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall attended a reception at 9 Pyramid Lounge. Pictured: Charles with Dr Khaled Al Anani, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, right

Charles has visited the Cairo tourist destination before privately, but Camilla has never been to the site before – with both the royals appearing awe-struck as their guide talked them through 4,500 years of history.

They walked carefully up several steps up the side of the 454ft (138.5m) high pyramid called Khufu – or Pyramid of Cheops – and briefly stepped into the tunnel entrance out of view.

Ashraf Mohi, director of the Pyramid Complex, walked the couple around the three pyramids and to the Great Sphinx. He told them: ‘You are stepping on rocks that go back centuries and centuries. This is an adventure.’

He pointed at the pyramid explaining it was once covered in flat limestone. He said: ‘If you imagine in another time, it looked so shiny.’

They also stood in front of the impassive Great Sphinx for a spectacular photo call. The prince had been very keen to show his wife around the site while on their four-day tour to the Middle East.

It was the first time Prince Charles has been in Cairo for 15 years. Princess Diana posed for photos at the site in 1992.

Prince Charles wore a blue pin-striped suit with a white shirt for the reception this evening, while Camilla opted for a flowy blue ensemble

Prince Charles wore a blue pin-striped suit with a white shirt for the reception this evening, while Camilla opted for a flowy blue ensemble

Prince Charles wore a blue pin-striped suit with a white shirt for the reception this evening, while Camilla opted for a flowy blue ensemble 

Prince Charles looked in great spirits tonight as he admired the Pyramids with Dr Khaled Al Anan, right, after a day busy with engagements

Prince Charles looked in great spirits tonight as he admired the Pyramids with Dr Khaled Al Anan, right, after a day busy with engagements

Prince Charles looked in great spirits tonight as he admired the Pyramids with Dr Khaled Al Anan, right, after a day busy with engagements

At the reception tonight, the heir-to-the-throne will give a speech in front of the assembled guest after his first day in Egypt during his tour of the Middle-East

At the reception tonight, the heir-to-the-throne will give a speech in front of the assembled guest after his first day in Egypt during his tour of the Middle-East

At the reception tonight, the heir-to-the-throne will give a speech in front of the assembled guest after his first day in Egypt during his tour of the Middle-East

Dressed in a flowing white headscarf, the Duchess of Cornwall went barefoot as she joined the Prince of Wales (pictured together) on a visit to Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

Dressed in a flowing white headscarf, the Duchess of Cornwall went barefoot as she joined the Prince of Wales (pictured together) on a visit to Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Duchess of Cornwall is all smiles as she arrives at Al Azhar Mosque

The Duchess of Cornwall is all smiles as she arrives at Al Azhar Mosque

Effortless style: Dressed in a flowing white headscarf, the Duchess of Cornwall went barefoot as she joined the Prince of Wales (pictured together, left) on a visit to Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

Strike a pose! The Prince of Wales and the beaming Duchess of Cornwall posed together during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza (pictured)

Strike a pose! The Prince of Wales and the beaming Duchess of Cornwall posed together during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza (pictured)

Strike a pose! The Prince of Wales and the beaming Duchess of Cornwall posed together during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza (pictured)

The royal couple (pictured) met with Dr. Khaled el Anani, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, and Dr. Zahi Hawass, Archaeologist, Egyptologist and former Minister for Antiquities, at the base of the Great Pyramid (Khufu)

The royal couple (pictured) met with Dr. Khaled el Anani, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, and Dr. Zahi Hawass, Archaeologist, Egyptologist and former Minister for Antiquities, at the base of the Great Pyramid (Khufu)

The royal couple (pictured) met with Dr. Khaled el Anani, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, and Dr. Zahi Hawass, Archaeologist, Egyptologist and former Minister for Antiquities, at the base of the Great Pyramid (Khufu)

Looking elegant in a cool tunic and trousers, Camilla removed the flowing white headscarf that she had worn earlier that day. Pictured, with Prince Charles visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx of Giza

Looking elegant in a cool tunic and trousers, Camilla removed the flowing white headscarf that she had worn earlier that day. Pictured, with Prince Charles visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx of Giza

Looking elegant in a cool tunic and trousers, Camilla removed the flowing white headscarf that she had worn earlier that day. Pictured, with Prince Charles visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx of Giza

Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Charles posed in front of the Sphinx

Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Charles posed in front of the Sphinx

The Prince of Wales put on a very animated display

The Prince of Wales put on a very animated display

Prince Charles put on a stylish display in a grey suit while Camilla (pictured together) opted for a loosing fitting ensemble, removing her headscarf which she’d worn earlier in the day

The royal couple walk next to Egypt's Antiquities and Tourism Minister Khaled al-Anany near the Pyramids of Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo

The royal couple walk next to Egypt's Antiquities and Tourism Minister Khaled al-Anany near the Pyramids of Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo

The royal couple walk next to Egypt’s Antiquities and Tourism Minister Khaled al-Anany near the Pyramids of Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo

The royal couple looked in high spirits as they arrived at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo on the first day of their Egypt tour, before posing in front of the Sphinx (pictured)

The royal couple looked in high spirits as they arrived at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo on the first day of their Egypt tour, before posing in front of the Sphinx (pictured)

The royal couple looked in high spirits as they arrived at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo on the first day of their Egypt tour, before posing in front of the Sphinx (pictured)

The Prince of Wales and Camilla were seen walking alongside Egypt's Antiquities and Tourism Minister Khaled al-Anany in front of the Sphinx

The Prince of Wales and Camilla were seen walking alongside Egypt's Antiquities and Tourism Minister Khaled al-Anany in front of the Sphinx

The Prince of Wales and Camilla were seen walking alongside Egypt’s Antiquities and Tourism Minister Khaled al-Anany in front of the Sphinx

The Prince of Wales and the beaming Duchess of Cornwall pose in front of the Sphinx on the outskirts of Cairo

The Prince of Wales and the beaming Duchess of Cornwall pose in front of the Sphinx on the outskirts of Cairo

The Prince of Wales and the beaming Duchess of Cornwall pose in front of the Sphinx on the outskirts of Cairo

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Great Pyramids of Giza were built 4,500 years ago and are among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  The towering 146 metre (481ft) high Great Pyramid of Giza, also called Khufu, remained the tallest building in the world for 4,000 years. It is made of two million bricks each weighing 50 tonnes. 

The 73 metre long Sphinx inspires millions of tourists every year. In pre-Covid times around 4,000 British tourists visited Egypt’s tourist destinations weekly. 

The couple’s visit to Egypt, which will continue tomorrow, will highlight close links with the UK and comes just weeks after the future King’s appearance at COP26 in Glasgow.

A source close to Charles said: ‘The Prince is convinced that human ingenuity can help stop climate change because when you look at the pyramids you realise just what people can do.’

As they stepped off their official government plane in the capital earlier today, the Prince and the Duchess were greeted by Gareth Bayley OBE, Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Egypt, and his wife, Sara Fawcett. 

Then the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, greeted their royal guests at the palace’s entrance and the foursome posed for pictures before they split, with the two women heading to a room for talks, while the prince and his host held their meeting, which lasted about 40 minutes, separately.

With Egypt due to take over the presidency of the next UN climate change conference – Cop27 – it is likely environmental issues were part of the discussions.

The Egyptian leader is a retired field marshal who led the military’s overthrow of Egypt’s first democratically elected head of state, Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, in 2013, following mass protests against his rule. 

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall walk across the courtyard of the Al Azhar Mosque

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall walk across the courtyard of the Al Azhar Mosque

Camilla donned a white headscarf during the visit, pictured

Camilla donned a white headscarf during the visit, pictured

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall walk across the courtyard of the Al Azhar Mosque, pictured left. Camilla donned a white headscarf during the visit, pictured right

The royal couple toured the Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo alongside the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb (left)

The royal couple toured the Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo alongside the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb (left)

The royal couple toured the Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo alongside the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb (left)

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb (left), receives Prince Charles (right) and Camilla (centre) upon their arrival at the mosque in Cairo

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb (left), receives Prince Charles (right) and Camilla (centre) upon their arrival at the mosque in Cairo

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb (left), receives Prince Charles (right) and Camilla (centre) upon their arrival at the mosque in Cairo

The Duchess of Cornwall went barefoot today as she and the Prince of Wales visited the Al Alzar mosque in Cairo

The Duchess of Cornwall went barefoot today as she and the Prince of Wales visited the Al Alzar mosque in Cairo

Charles urged young people studying in an Egyptian mosque to remember ‘all we have in common, not what divides us'.

Charles urged young people studying in an Egyptian mosque to remember ‘all we have in common, not what divides us'.

The Duchess of Cornwall (pictured left, and right with Prince Charles) went barefoot today as she and the Prince of Wales visited the Al Alzar mosque in Cairo

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb welcomed Prince Charles and Camilla upon their arrival at the mosque

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb welcomed Prince Charles and Camilla upon their arrival at the mosque

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb welcomed Prince Charles and Camilla upon their arrival at the mosque

In a televised announcement the president, then an army general, told the nation Mr Morsi had been removed from office and had failed to fulfil ‘the hope for a national consensus’.

The move was followed by a crackdown on those who opposed the ousting of Mr Morsi, which human rights organisations said resulted in the deaths of hundreds during one day of protests.

The Egyptian leader – who former US president Donald Trump once reportedly called ‘my favourite dictator’ – has made maintaining stability and order in Egypt a priority.

Later, the Duchess of Cornwall went barefoot as she and the Prince of Wales visited the Al Alzar mosque in Cairo.

Prince Charles also urged young people studying in an Egyptian mosque to remember ‘all we have in common, not what divides us’. The Prince, visiting the Al Alzar mosque in Cairo, told students the ‘most important thing’ is to focus on the shared beliefs across faiths. ‘We share so much,’ he said.

The Prince and Duchess of Cornwall visited the Al Azhar Mosque shortly after landing in Cairo this morning, viewing the spectacular architecture and posing for a photograph in the central courtyard.

They met the Grand Imam Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb, accompanied by the Archbishop of the Anglican Province of Alexandria, Dr Samy Fawzy.

After the Duchess departed to begin her own programme in Cairo, the Prince attended an interfaith reception in closed Abassa room of the mosque. There, he was said to be in ‘deep conversation’ with the Grand Imam, surrounded by their entourages. 

The Duchess of Cornwall looked elegant in a cool tunic and trousers

The Duchess of Cornwall looked elegant in a cool tunic and trousers

Camilla smiled for the cameras alongside Charles and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb

Camilla smiled for the cameras alongside Charles and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb

The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall pose for photographs as they visit the courtyard of the Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo

Prince Charles could be seen removing his sunglasses as he and wife Camilla were received by Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb (left)

Prince Charles could be seen removing his sunglasses as he and wife Camilla were received by Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb (left)

Prince Charles could be seen removing his sunglasses as he and wife Camilla were received by Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb (left)

Camilla put on a stylish display in an Anna Valentine ensemble as she posed alongside Charles and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb for photographs

Camilla put on a stylish display in an Anna Valentine ensemble as she posed alongside Charles and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb for photographs

Camilla put on a stylish display in an Anna Valentine ensemble as she posed alongside Charles and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb for photographs

The Prince of Wales put on a very animated display as he arrived alongside Camilla at the mosque in Cairo (pictured)

The Prince of Wales put on a very animated display as he arrived alongside Camilla at the mosque in Cairo (pictured)

The Prince of Wales put on a very animated display as he arrived alongside Camilla at the mosque in Cairo (pictured)

The royal couple will spend the next day and a half in the capital, with the highlight of their visit a trip to see the pyramids, naturally. Pictured, at the mosque with Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb

The royal couple will spend the next day and a half in the capital, with the highlight of their visit a trip to see the pyramids, naturally. Pictured, at the mosque with Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb

The royal couple will spend the next day and a half in the capital, with the highlight of their visit a trip to see the pyramids, naturally. Pictured, at the mosque with Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb

Prince Charles completed his ensemble with a matching pocket square and patterned tie. Pictured, with Camilla and The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb

Prince Charles completed his ensemble with a matching pocket square and patterned tie. Pictured, with Camilla and The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb

Prince Charles completed his ensemble with a matching pocket square and patterned tie. Pictured, with Camilla and The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb

The Prince of Wales cut a cool figure in a pair of rectangular sunglasses, smart grey suit and crisp white shirt. Pictured, with the Duchess of Cornwall and Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb

The Prince of Wales cut a cool figure in a pair of rectangular sunglasses, smart grey suit and crisp white shirt. Pictured, with the Duchess of Cornwall and Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb

The Prince of Wales cut a cool figure in a pair of rectangular sunglasses, smart grey suit and crisp white shirt. Pictured, with the Duchess of Cornwall and Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb was seen standing next to Camilla and Prince Charles

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb was seen standing next to Camilla and Prince Charles

Egyptian Islamic scholar and the current Grand Imam of al-Azhar mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb was seen standing next to Camilla and Prince Charles

The Prince of Wales (second right) and The Duchess of Cornwall with Grand Imam of Al Azhar Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb

The Prince of Wales (second right) and The Duchess of Cornwall with Grand Imam of Al Azhar Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb

The Prince of Wales (second right) and The Duchess of Cornwall with Grand Imam of Al Azhar Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales (right) with the Grand Imam of Al Azhar Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb (left) during an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque

The Prince of Wales (right) with the Grand Imam of Al Azhar Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb (left) during an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque

After the Duchess (left, with Prince Charles) departed to begin her own programme in Cairo, the Prince (right) attended an interfaith reception in closed Abassa room of the mosque

The Prince of Wales (centre) visits Beit al-Razzaz, a traditional crafts workshop in Cairo, Egypt, on the third day of his tour of the Middle East with the Duchess of Cornwall

The Prince of Wales (centre) visits Beit al-Razzaz, a traditional crafts workshop in Cairo, Egypt, on the third day of his tour of the Middle East with the Duchess of Cornwall

The Prince of Wales (centre) visits Beit al-Razzaz, a traditional crafts workshop in Cairo, Egypt, on the third day of his tour of the Middle East with the Duchess of Cornwall

The leaders were later joined by six Al-Azhar scholars, who told the Prince about their studies in English, religion and climate change. The British Council has been running an Al-Azhar UK Academic Scholarship scheme since 2015.

It aims to promote mutual understanding among a new generation of Muslim and non-Muslim scholars, and allows students to study for degrees in Islamic studies at British universities before returning to Al-Azhar University to work as faculty members.

As patron of the scheme, the Prince hosted six students from the programme at Clarence House in March 2018, with two of them – Mariam Shehata and Muhammed Al-Marakby – joining him again today.

He asked them about their studies, and whether they had noticed a ‘growing awareness’ from people about the importance of talking about climate change.

The Prince went on to meet groups of students learning English at the mosque, with young men and women arranged in small groups to speak to him.

‘The most important thing is to emphasise what we have in common not what divides us,’ the Prince told one group of women. ‘Do remember that. We share so much.’

He asked them of their studies: ‘Have you managed through the worst of the pandemic? Did you do it all online?’

Stopping to talk to a second group, he wondered: ‘Are you actually able to sit down with representatives from other faiths for conversation? Learning a bit from each other? 

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall meet the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall meet the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall meet the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall arrive at Cairo Airport in Egypt from Jordan, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall arrive at Cairo Airport in Egypt from Jordan, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall arriving at Cairo Airport in Egypt

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall arriving at Cairo Airport in Egypt

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall arrive at Cairo Airport in Egypt from Jordan, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are all smiles as they meet the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are all smiles as they meet the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are all smiles as they meet the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the First Lady, Entissar Amer, at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo

Walking the red carpet! Charles appeared dapper in a light suit teamed with a blue tie when arriving to meet the President of Egypt, alongside an equally cool Camilla

Walking the red carpet! Charles appeared dapper in a light suit teamed with a blue tie when arriving to meet the President of Egypt, alongside an equally cool Camilla

Charles and Camilla arrive to meet the President of Egypt

Charles and Camilla arrive to meet the President of Egypt

Walking the red carpet! Charles appeared dapper in a light suit teamed with a blue tie when arriving to meet the President of Egypt, alongside an equally cool Camilla

The Prince of Wales was said to be in 'deep conversation' with the Grand Imam, surrounded by their entourages. Pictured, during an interfaith reception

The Prince of Wales was said to be in 'deep conversation' with the Grand Imam, surrounded by their entourages. Pictured, during an interfaith reception

The Prince of Wales was said to be in ‘deep conversation’ with the Grand Imam, surrounded by their entourages. Pictured, during an interfaith reception

The Prince of Wales (pictured) attends an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo

The Prince of Wales (pictured) attends an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo

The Prince of Wales (pictured) attends an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo

The Prince of Wales (centre) went on to meet with students during an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque

The Prince of Wales (centre) went on to meet with students during an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque

The Prince of Wales (centre) went on to meet with students during an interfaith reception at Al Azhar Mosque

The leaders were later joined by six Al-Azhar scholars, who told the Prince about their studies in English, religion and climate change

The leaders were later joined by six Al-Azhar scholars, who told the Prince about their studies in English, religion and climate change

The leaders were later joined by six Al-Azhar scholars, who told the Prince about their studies in English, religion and climate change

As patron of the scheme, the Prince hosted six students from the programme at Clarence House in March 2018, with two of them - Mariam Shehata and Muhammed Al-Marakby - joining him again today

As patron of the scheme, the Prince hosted six students from the programme at Clarence House in March 2018, with two of them - Mariam Shehata and Muhammed Al-Marakby - joining him again today

As patron of the scheme, the Prince hosted six students from the programme at Clarence House in March 2018, with two of them – Mariam Shehata and Muhammed Al-Marakby – joining him again today

‘There must be a lot of people your age who want to do this sort of course with the British Council.’

Of learning languages, he added: ‘It’s practising isn’t it? That’s what’s so difficult. My Arabic needs practice.’

Founded in AD 970, the mosque is one of Cairo’s earliest and considered an architectural wonder.

Its university is the second-oldest educational institution in the world, and is a centre of Islamic learning.

The royal couple last visited Al-Azhar in 2006, when the Prince of Wales received an honorary doctorate from Al-Azhar University, which is considered the foremost Islamic institution in the Sunni Muslim world. 

Elsewhere, one day she will sit on a throne – but today the Duchess of Cornwall was delighted to sit on an eye-catching chair made from old painted tyres.

It was made by women living in the challenged Ezbet Khairallah area of Cairo which Camilla visited shortly after touching down in Egypt.

Ezbet Kheirallah is a low-income settlement established in the mid-1970s when immigrants from Upper Egypt and Delta cities came to Cairo looking for work. 

Greetings from Cairo! Prince Charles receives a formal welcome at the Al-Ittihadiyah Palace from Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi

Greetings from Cairo! Prince Charles receives a formal welcome at the Al-Ittihadiyah Palace from Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi

Greetings from Cairo! Prince Charles receives a formal welcome at the Al-Ittihadiyah Palace from Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi

The Prince of Wales (centre left) during a meeting with the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi (centre right), at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo, during the third day of his tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales (centre left) during a meeting with the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi (centre right), at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo, during the third day of his tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales (centre left) during a meeting with the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi (centre right), at Al-Ittahadiya Palace in Cairo, during the third day of his tour of the Middle East

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, arrive at the presidential palace

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, arrive at the presidential palace

All in the details: Looking typically stylish, the Duchess of Cornwall teamed her elegant pink tunic and trousers with a fashionable handbag

All in the details: Looking typically stylish, the Duchess of Cornwall teamed her elegant pink tunic and trousers with a fashionable handbag

All in the details: Looking typically stylish, the Duchess of Cornwall (pictured left, with Prince Charles) teamed her elegant pink tunic and trousers with a fashionable handbag

The British Council started work with the Ezbet Kheirallah community in 2017, helping young people and, particularly, women and girls.

Met by Ruth Cocks, Deputy Director of the British Council in Egypt, and Abdelfattah Nada, Project Lead and Volunteer, the duchess joined a rooftop gathering and met a group of women from Button Up, a social enterprise working with women and children. 

Button Up’s work focuses on women’s economic empowerment, parenting and physiological awareness as well as literacy, reducing school drop-out rates and citizenship.

She was shown a variety of eco-friendly items the women make, including bags. ‘Are you able to sell them?’ asked Camilla. ‘They really are excellent, it’s a very clever idea. When you start doing things for yourself you don’t know where it will take you.’

The women seemed genuinely touched at her interest as they told her their stories. ‘It’s such an excellent project, very well done. It’s such a pleasure to meet you,’ she added. 

The royal visitor was also shown another project, planting tomato plants to grow fruit and sell. ‘I see you want people to have more economic power by selling the crops,’ she sad. She told the women: ‘It is so very important to have girls on board with these initiatives. ‘

The 74-year-old duchess also had the chance to plant her own addition to their garden, asking for water and bending down without ceremony to make sure it was well-soaked. ‘I hope I haven’t killed it,’ she joked.

It was then time to take her seat on her chair, which was made out of tyres and had a cushion placed on it for her. ‘What a clever idea. How long does it take you to make one? An hour? You can make lots!’ It really is so ingenious. It’s an excellent idea,’ she said. 

Looking elegant in a cool tunic and trousers, Camilla (pictured arriving with her husband), 74, swapped her earlier blue and white dress for the Anna Valentine ensemble as she arrived in Cairo with her equally sophisticated husband, Prince Charles, 73

Looking elegant in a cool tunic and trousers, Camilla (pictured arriving with her husband), 74, swapped her earlier blue and white dress for the Anna Valentine ensemble as she arrived in Cairo with her equally sophisticated husband, Prince Charles, 73

Looking elegant in a cool tunic and trousers, Camilla (pictured arriving with her husband), 74, swapped her earlier blue and white dress for the Anna Valentine ensemble as she arrived in Cairo with her equally sophisticated husband, Prince Charles, 73

The royal couple (pictured left) will spend the next day and a half in the capital, with the highlight of their visit a trip to see the pyramids, naturally

The royal couple (pictured left) will spend the next day and a half in the capital, with the highlight of their visit a trip to see the pyramids, naturally

Camilla looked effortlessly elegant in her attire when arriving at Cairo Airport today

Camilla looked effortlessly elegant in her attire when arriving at Cairo Airport today

The royal couple (pictured left) will spend the next day and a half in the capital, with the highlight of their visit a trip to see the pyramids, naturally

As they stepped off their official government plane, the Prince and the Duchess were greeted by Gareth Bayley OBE, Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Egypt, and his wife, Sara Fawcett (pictured)

As they stepped off their official government plane, the Prince and the Duchess were greeted by Gareth Bayley OBE, Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Egypt, and his wife, Sara Fawcett (pictured)

As they stepped off their official government plane, the Prince and the Duchess were greeted by Gareth Bayley OBE, Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Egypt, and his wife, Sara Fawcett (pictured)

The duchess watched a short performance by a group of women storytellers about the challenges they have faced and how they have overcome them, clapping them enthusiastically at the end.

There were tales of forced married, domestic violence and coercive control, all issues the duchess has campaigned on both in the UK and around the world.

‘It is so important for all of you to tell your stories and encourage others to do the same,’ she said, before posing for a group photograph. One of the women was impassioned as she told her: ‘I am now an entrepreneur. I am powerful. I am proud of myself.’ 

Meanwhile, Charles and Camilla spent the past two days touring Jordan and the prince ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation.

The prince said Britain’s former protectorate was a voice of ‘moderation, understanding and tolerance’ in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II.  

Last night Charles and Camilla enjoyed their final public engagement in Jordan, where they spent the first two days of their trip.

The Prince evoked the spirit of Lawrence of Arabia in an address celebrating Jordan’s centenary at the Jordan Museum in Amman. 

He described how ‘British soldiers fighting side by side with their Arab partners, laid the foundation for the eventual establishment of the Jordanian state.’ 

The Prince of Wales and President Sisi will take part in a private bilateral meeting. Pictured, the Prince of Wales and Camilla as they arrive

The Prince of Wales and President Sisi will take part in a private bilateral meeting. Pictured, the Prince of Wales and Camilla as they arrive

The Prince of Wales and President Sisi will take part in a private bilateral meeting. Pictured, the Prince of Wales and Camilla as they arrive

The couple (pictured) spent the past two days touring Jordan and the prince ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation

The couple (pictured) spent the past two days touring Jordan and the prince ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation

The couple (pictured) spent the past two days touring Jordan and the prince ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation

The prince (pictured with Camilla) said Britain's former protectorate was a voice of 'moderation, understanding and tolerance' in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II

The prince (pictured with Camilla) said Britain's former protectorate was a voice of 'moderation, understanding and tolerance' in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II

The prince (pictured with Camilla) said Britain’s former protectorate was a voice of ‘moderation, understanding and tolerance’ in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II

He hailed Jordan’s ‘unflinching and generous hospitality’ saying ‘it offers not just safe haven for refugees but – through education – hope and opportunity for the future’. 

Charles and Camilla, wearing an elegant white tunic and trousers by Anna Valentine, were greeted at the Jordan Museum by the Hejaz railway carriage which was targeted by Lawrence when he led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.

They were treated to a short musical performance from the Mahali Musical Production and viewed the Rejuvenation and Modernisation of Extinct Arts and Crafts (RMEAC) pop-up art exhibition. The couple also viewed The Dead Sea scrolls which are on display at the museum.

In his keynote speech, Charles said: ‘Your Royal Highnesses, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen – I did just want to begin by thanking you most warmly for having invited my wife and myself to join you for this very special celebration.

‘I first visited this most friendly and special of countries some thirty-six years ago and have been drawn back time and time again by the remarkable generosity, hospitality and courteousness for which Jordan is rightly famed. As the Jordanian poet Haidar Mahmoud has written.’

The Prince then spoke in Arabic saying: ‘It suffices my country that it was founded on the basis of love.’

He received a generous round of applause for his efforts from the more than 50 guests including embassy staff and Jordanian royal family. 

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport before departing Jordan to fly to Egypt, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport before departing Jordan to fly to Egypt, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport before departing Jordan to fly to Egypt, on the third day of their tour of the Middle East 

Prince Charles, 73, and Camilla, 74, (pictured departing Jordan) have spent the past two days touring Jordan

Prince Charles, 73, and Camilla, 74, (pictured departing Jordan) have spent the past two days touring Jordan

The prince (pictured with Camilla) ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation

The prince (pictured with Camilla) ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation

Prince Charles, 73, and Camilla, 74, (pictured departing Jordan) have spent the past two days touring Jordan and the prince ended their time in the country by praising UK-Jordan relations in a speech marking the 100th anniversary of the founding of the nation

The prince (pictured at Queen Alia International Airport) said Britain's former protectorate was a voice of 'moderation, understanding and tolerance' in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II

The prince (pictured at Queen Alia International Airport) said Britain's former protectorate was a voice of 'moderation, understanding and tolerance' in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II

The prince (pictured at Queen Alia International Airport) said Britain’s former protectorate was a voice of ‘moderation, understanding and tolerance’ in the region under the leadership of King Abdullah II

In Egypt, highlights of the two-day visit include a UK-Egypt reception overlooking the pyramids at the Giza Plateau to celebrate the bond between the two countries, and a tour of the ancient city of Alexandria. Pictured, Prince Charles

In Egypt, highlights of the two-day visit include a UK-Egypt reception overlooking the pyramids at the Giza Plateau to celebrate the bond between the two countries, and a tour of the ancient city of Alexandria. Pictured, Prince Charles

Prince Charles and Camilla (pictured together) leaving Jordan

Prince Charles and Camilla (pictured together) leaving Jordan

In Egypt, highlights of the two-day visit include a UK-Egypt reception overlooking the pyramids at the Giza Plateau to celebrate the bond between the two countries, and a tour of the ancient city of Alexandria. Pictured, Prince Charles (left) and Camilla (seen together, right) leaving Jordan

Charles and Camilla (pictured arriving at the airport) will also visit Cairo's Grand Imam of al-Azhar to discuss with the religious leader and a group of young scholars religious tolerance and the role of faith in stewarding the environment

Charles and Camilla (pictured arriving at the airport) will also visit Cairo's Grand Imam of al-Azhar to discuss with the religious leader and a group of young scholars religious tolerance and the role of faith in stewarding the environment

Charles and Camilla (pictured arriving at the airport) will also visit Cairo’s Grand Imam of al-Azhar to discuss with the religious leader and a group of young scholars religious tolerance and the role of faith in stewarding the environment

Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the prince (pictured arriving at the airport with Camilla), said when the tour was first announced climate change would be one of the main themes of the visit, and other issues would include inter-faith dialogue, female empowerment and efforts to preserve cultural heritage

Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the prince (pictured arriving at the airport with Camilla), said when the tour was first announced climate change would be one of the main themes of the visit, and other issues would include inter-faith dialogue, female empowerment and efforts to preserve cultural heritage

Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the prince (pictured arriving at the airport with Camilla), said when the tour was first announced climate change would be one of the main themes of the visit, and other issues would include inter-faith dialogue, female empowerment and efforts to preserve cultural heritage

The honour guard wait the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport before their departure of Jordan to fly to Egypt

The honour guard wait the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport before their departure of Jordan to fly to Egypt

The honour guard wait the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport before their departure of Jordan to fly to Egypt

Yesterday, Prince Charles reassured the public over the Queen's health during his visit to Jordan, saying: 'She's all right, thank you very much,' after he was asked about his mother. Pictured, the honour guard wait the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport

Yesterday, Prince Charles reassured the public over the Queen's health during his visit to Jordan, saying: 'She's all right, thank you very much,' after he was asked about his mother. Pictured, the honour guard wait the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport

Yesterday, Prince Charles reassured the public over the Queen’s health during his visit to Jordan, saying: ‘She’s all right, thank you very much,’ after he was asked about his mother. Pictured, the honour guard wait the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Queen Alia International Airport

The prince joked: ‘Having massacred wonders of Arabic language.. To be here with you this year is especially significant.

‘After the sorrow, separation, and grief, which Covid 19 as brought us all, it is with that special joy of being once again among friends that we have begun our first overseas tour in nearly two years. That we should do so here in Jordan, to join you in celebrating the centenary year of Jordan’s founding, means more to us than I can possibly say.’

The Prince and Duchess have been sent to the region by the UK government to strengthen bi-lateral relations and highlight issues around climate change and political, cultural economic links.

In Egypt, highlights of the two-day visit include a UK-Egypt reception overlooking the pyramids at the Giza Plateau to celebrate the bond between the two countries, and a tour of the ancient city of Alexandria.

Charles and Camilla will also visit Cairo’s Grand Imam of al-Azhar to discuss with the religious leader and a group of young scholars religious tolerance and the role of faith in stewarding the environment.

Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the prince, said when the tour was first announced climate change would be one of the main themes of the visit, and other issues would include inter-faith dialogue, female empowerment and efforts to preserve cultural heritage. 

Mr Fitzgerald said: ‘Their royal highnesses’ visit to Egypt comes as the UK holds the Cop presidency and Egypt has been nominated to assume the Cop27 presidency in 2022.

‘In this decisive decade for climate action, the next 12 months is therefore expected to see a significant co-operation between the UK and Egypt. Indeed, both visits will have a major focus on addressing the climate crisis.’