Duchess of Edinburgh poses with Paddington Bear as she holds key meeting with Peruvian President

Lewis Henderson

By Lewis Henderson


Published: 15/11/2025

- 17:01

The President of Peru said his country is 'proud' to host the duchess

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, posed with Paddington Bear at the British Embassy in Peru before meeting the country's President.

As part of her 10-day visit to South and Central America, Sophie spoke with Peru's President, Jose Jeri, the Chancellor, Ambassador Hugo De Zela, and other Government officials.


The duchess was seen wearing a floral monochrome dress as she shook hands with Mr Jeri.

Sophie engaged with individuals at the embassy before the meeting inside the Government's Palace.

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The duchess posed with Paddington Bear

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The President of Peru's social media page read: "To conclude her visit, Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Edinburgh, had a protocol greeting with the President of the Republic, José Jerí and the Chancellor, Ambassador Hugo De Zela.

"We are proud that the visit of the duchess continues to strengthen the more than 200 years of friendship and collaboration between Peru and the United Kingdom."

The duchess is currently on an extensive tour across South and Central America, journeying to four countries, which will conclude on November 19.

The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office requested Sophie's presence in Peru, Panama, and Guatemala, while her visit to Belize forms part of the Royal Family's ongoing engagements within the Commonwealth Realm.

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The duchess met people inside of the British Embassy

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The duchess is due to meet high-ranking Panamanian Government officials, acknowledging the nation's partnership with Britain on international issues, particularly regarding conflict-related sexual violence.

Her Guatemalan schedule includes observing civil society organisations that assist survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking.

Sophie will tour a charity dedicated to helping at-risk youth in Guatemala. Additionally, she will witness indigenous-led conservation programmes in the Maya Biosphere Reserve's isolated and ecologically rich areas.

The Commonwealth Realm of Belize marks the final destination, where she will participate in Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations, recognising the nation's cultural diversity.

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Sophie is on a 10-day trip across South and Central America

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As part of her trip to Peru, the Duchess of Edinburgh came face-to-face with the "king of spiders" in the Peruvian Amazon.

Sophie brought her hand to her chest, mouth and forehead and appeared nervous as she inspected the Goliath birdeater - the biggest tarantula in the world.

She looked at the large spider, which was resting on top of a leaf held by one of the professional Amazon guides, before handling the leaf herself and looking down at the creature.

The duchess was joined by guides Rey Mozombite and Daniel Macedo, who explored the dense forests and also took the chance to hold a green anaconda snake.

Duchess of Edinburgh

The duchess held a key meeting with Peruvian President

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PA

During the first day of her visit to Peru, the duchess met with women from the indigenous Awajun, Shipibo-Konibo, and Kukama-Kukamiria tribes, who have played a role in defending women's rights.

She discussed how women have taken on leadership roles, contributing to territorial governance and tackling climate change.

Sophie then attended a dinner to mark the UK's first year of implementing a biodiverse landscape programme.

The fund is designed for sustainable production and bio-business in the Andes and Amazon regions.