Kate Middleton’s Italy visit marks important moment in return to royal duties

Kate Middleton is set to take a major step in her royal comeback as she prepares for her first solo overseas trip in more than three years.

According to a royal expert, the Princess of Wales' visit highlights her growing confidence after a difficult health battle following cancer diagnosis.

Kate will travel to Italy this week for a two-day visit focused on early childhood development, a cause she has long championed through The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood. 

Speaking on it, royal expert Jennie Bond described the trip as an important milestone in Kate’s “journey to full recovery,” adding that King Charles would be “delighted” to see her representing the monarchy abroad once again. 

“This is certainly a welcome milestone in Catherine’s journey to full recovery, and the King will be delighted. He undoubtedly trusts her implicitly to represent the Royal Family both at home and abroad," she told The Mirror.

“She has a star quality that no other royal can bring to an occasion. And that’s a valuable asset for the monarchy. 

"William will be equally pleased, and proud, to see his wife undertake an official solo trip abroad - it speaks volumes about her growing self-confidence after such a devastating health scare.”

Bond continued, “Catherine has chosen to travel in support of a cause she’s passionate about - early years development - and this will be a meaningful and educational trip for her. 

"She always wants to learn more about global research into the best ways to nurture children in their first five years of life, so she will get thoroughly absorbed in the work going on in Italy.”