Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's “rivalry” with the Royal Family could “muddy the waters” around international tours, a former royal staffer has claimed.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s suggestion that they will do more foreign tours and Harry’s statement claiming King Charles had refused to meet him have seemingly reactivated the feud between the two families.
Relations are “as bad as they have ever been” according to one friend of the Windsors.
Harry and Meghan's tour of Nigeria, whilst garnering positive global headlines, has stoked fears of a new “rivalry” between the Windsors and the Sussexes.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry recently travelled to Nigeria for three days
Getty
One former royal staffer said: “Overseas visits might look like jollies, but they are actually a matter of foreign policy.
“They are about promoting the UK and building diplomatic and trade alliances on behalf of the Government.
“Harry and Meghan have different priorities because they are no longer working royals.
“But of course, the vast majority of the world is ignorant of such distinctions, and regard Harry and Meghan as every bit as representative of the Royal Family as William and Charles.”
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were received very well in Nigeria
Reuters
They continued to tell The Daily Beast: “So if these rival foreign tours become a regular thing, it could muddy the waters.
“The reason they went to Nigeria was to promote Invictus (the Paralympic-style event Harry set up) and themselves.
“That’s not what royal tours are about.”
Harry and Meghan have hinted that their trip to Nigeria was not an isolated event and more such tours are being planned.
Meghan Markle showcased some fabulous outfits during her time in Nigeria
Reuters
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The Duke of Sussex told People: “It is hugely important for us to meet directly with people, supporting our causes and listening, in order to bring about solutions, support and positive change.
“There’s only so much one can do from home and over Zoom, so we look forward to travelling more because the work matters.
“Whether it’s the Archewell Foundation, Invictus, or any of our other causes, there will always be reasons to meet the people at the heart of our work.”