Princess Anne has arrived in Dublin today for a diplomatic engagement that will see her received by Irish President Michael D Higgins at his official home.
The Princess Royal's schedule includes a courtesy visit to Áras an Uachtaráin, where she will meet the President and his wife Sabina.
Following the presidential meeting, the King's sister will proceed to the Royal Dublin Society for the inaugural day of the 150th Dublin Horse Show.
Her attendance at this milestone edition of the prestigious equestrian event forms part of a programme celebrating Anglo-Irish relations through shared sporting and cultural interests.
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|Princess Anne has arrived in Dublin today for a diplomatic engagement that will see her received by Irish President Michael D Higgins at his official home.
At the RDS, Princess Anne will view a dedicated display chronicling the horse show's century-and-a-half heritage.
Her itinerary includes meeting with delegates from equine welfare organisations, specifically Festina Lente and the Riding for the Disabled Association Ireland.
The Bray-headquartered Festina Lente provides therapeutic programmes and educational opportunities through horse-based activities.
Princess Anne, who represented Britain in equestrian eventing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, will award ribbons to victors in the Small Hunters category, specifically Class 20 of the competition.
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|Princess Anne will view a dedicated display chronicling the horse show's century-and-a-half heritage.
Paul Johnston, Britain's Ambassador to Ireland, stated: "The Princess Royal's visit underscores the deep and enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and Ireland, and the significance of the 150th holding of the RDS Dublin Horse Show."
Princess Anne has travelled to Ireland numerous times, including regular trips as the Scottish Rugby Union's patron during Six Nations fixtures.
Johnson added: "Her visit this week reflects her lifelong interest in equestrianism and charitable work."
This marks Princess Anne's second appearance at the presidential residence, having previously called there in February 2004 when Mary McAleese held office.
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|This marks Princess Anne's second appearance at the presidential residence.
That earlier engagement was a private affair, with Princess Anne accompanied by Stewart Eldon, Britain's then-ambassador to Ireland.
The presidential residence has hosted several members of the Royal Family over the years, most notably during Queen Elizabeth II's groundbreaking 2011 journey to the Republic.
Prince Philip visited the residence independently in November 1998 and April 2006.
More recently, Prince William and Princess Kate enjoyed afternoon tea with President Higgins and Sabina during their 2020 tour.