King Charles official foreign tour of Indian subcontinent 'encouraging' sign after cancer treatment

A trip to the Indian subcontinent could be on the cards for the King, providing a much-needed lift after his battle with cancer. The tour might also mark a return to his postponed visits to India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan following the Queen's passing in September 2022.

Downing Street is reportedly drafting plans for Charles and Camilla to spearhead a charm offensive as the UK seeks stronger economic ties post-Brexit. A source revealed: "It's hugely encouraging to be able to make such plans for the King and Queen given the year the monarch has had, but it's very much full steam ahead. A tour of the Indian subcontinent is in the offing, which will be of huge political and cultural significance for Britain on the world stage. The King and Queen are the perfect ambassadors at such a time."

Foreign Office officials have been greenlit to discuss potential Royal visits, with tours of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh now being considered. Indian PM Narendra Modi, after the cancellation of the prior visit, is keen to welcome the King and Queen Camilla.

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However, the burgeoning friendship between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin raises concerns, following their meeting at the BRICS summit and recent commendations of Russia's "strategic partnership" with India by Putin.

Mr Modi has maintained that the conflict in Ukraine should be "ended peacefully". During his tenure as Prince of Wales, Charles, accompanied by Camilla, visited Pakistan in 2006 for a week-long trip, reports the Mirror.

He expressed to well-wishers: "It has taken me very nearly 58 years to reach you and it's not from want of trying, I can tell you."

The Royal couple returned to Pakistan in 2019 to strengthen bilateral relations. In November of the same year, Charles embarked on his 10th official visit to India, with a focus on climate change, sustainability, and social finance.

His itinerary included a stop at the Meteorological Department in New Delhi, a ride in an electric rickshaw, and a meeting with environmentalist Sunita Narain. Last month, the King and Queen Consort enjoyed a spa break in India following their tour of Australia and Samoa.

Sources suggest Charles is keen to make an official visit to India as monarch. Palace officials reported last month that he is ready to resume a full schedule of overseas tours after finding the Australian and Samoan trip to be the "perfect tonic".

The Mirror disclosed recently that the Royal couple is gearing up for a spring tour to Italy as efforts to fortify European ties continue. With Italy celebrating a holy Jubilee year in 2025, starting on Christmas Eve and concluding on Epiphany 2026, there is speculation about a potential meeting between the royals and the Pope.

The Palace declined to comment last night.