Now, it seems that the two royal women have even more in common. Queen Jetsun Pema, who is married to the reigning King Jigme Khesar, this week oversaw a mental health conference that focused on children’s wellbeing – highlighting a topic which is at the centre of much of Kate’s royal work.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Third Annual PEMA Symposium in Thimphu, the Bhutanese Queen, 35, explained it is a cause that has become increasingly close to her heart. ‘No matter how much progress we make in education, health, or development, we cannot flourish as a society if our children do not feel safe, supported, and able to grow with confidence and joy,’ Queen Jetsun Pema said.
The royal went on to argue that the children of Bhutan ‘deserve a system that not only responds to harm but also actively promotes well-being, nurtures resilience, and prevents harm before it occurs’. She continued, ‘They deserve homes and schools where they feel safe, loved, and supported; communities that hear their voices and empower them to thrive; and services that are sensitive to their needs.’