The Duchess of Edinburgh is undertaking a significant tour of South and Central America, with her latest stop in Peru highlighting a unique piece of British maritime history and championing women's rights.
A Glimpse into Naval History
During a visit to the Iquitos Naval Base on Wednesday, Sophie was given a detailed tour of the BAP America, the oldest river gunboat in the world. This remarkable vessel holds a special connection to the UK, having been built in Birkenhead in 1904.
The ship served for many years in the Peruvian navy’s Amazon flotilla before being retired and put on display as a museum piece in 2015. The Duchess's inspection of this historic craft underscores the long-standing and enduring defence and shipbuilding links between the two nations.
Championing Women and Environmental Causes
Earlier in her Peruvian visit, the Duchess dedicated time to meet with women from the Awajun, Shipibo-Konibo and Kukama Kukamiria indigenous tribes. These leaders have been instrumental in defending women's rights within their communities.
Sophie heard firsthand accounts of how these women have assumed pivotal leadership roles. Their contributions are vast, extending to territorial governance and the critical fight against environmental crime and the effects of climate change.
Celebrating Environmental Partnerships
The royal itinerary also included a formal dinner to mark a milestone in the UK's environmental commitment. The event celebrated the first year of implementing a biodiverse landscape programme in the region.
This fund is specifically designed to promote sustainable production and bio-business ventures throughout the sensitive ecosystems of the Andes and the Amazon. The Duchess's presence at this event reinforces the UK's dedication to international cooperation on climate and conservation issues.
Her tour of South and Central America continues with planned stops in Panama, Guatemala, and Belize, further strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties.
