Prince and Princess of Wales thank Jacinda Ardern for ‘friendship and support’
The royal couple shared a statement thanking the outgoing New Zealand prime minister.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Prince and Princess of Wales have thanked outgoing New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern for her support for them over the years.
William and Kate shared a tweet addressed to the leader on Tuesday, saying her friendship had been valuable particularly after the Queen’s death last year.
Writing on their official Kensington Royal account, they also expressed “best wishes” for Ms Ardern’s partner, television presenter Clarke Gayford, and four-year-old daughter Neve.
The royal couple said: “Thank you @jacindaardern for your friendship, leadership and support over the years, not least at the time of my grandmother’s death.
“Sending you, Clarke and Neve our best wishes. W & C.”
Ms Ardern was among the world leaders at the Queen’s funeral at Westminster Abbey on September 19.
Two months before the Queen died, William had welcomed Ms Ardern to Kensington Palace during her first trip to the UK since the coronavirus pandemic.
Their meeting was held in private, but a spokesman for William, who was then the Duke of Cambridge, said it took place on July 2.
In April 2019, William visited New Zealand to pay tribute to those affected by the Christchurch terror attack, in which 50 people were killed.
He met survivors of the attack and their families, members of the emergency services and Muslim community leaders.
Ms Ardern has also previously spoken of a “real connection” with the royal family following separate visits to her homeland by William and Kate, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The New Zealand Labour Party politician dramatically resigned last week, saying she no longer had “enough in the tank” to fulfil the demanding role.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.