'Kate's noisy return to international stage proves future is bright for princess'

'Kate's noisy return to international stage proves future is bright for princess'The Mirror's Royal Editor Russell Myers says the sight of thousands trying to catch a glimpse of the Princess of Wales in Reggio Emilia today proves the future looks bright for KateCommentsNewsopinionRussell Myers, Royal Editor in Reggio Emilia18:09, 13 May 2026Updated 18:13, 13 May 2026The Princess of Wales has arrived in Italy The Princess of Wales’s return on the international stage was never going to be a quiet affair. ‌ Much like the King’s immense reception in the United States, the sight of thousands packing the streets of Reggio Emilia in Italy, to catch a glimpse of the future queen, tells you the royals still have the X Factor. There has been much speculation when Kate would return to full time royal duties following her cancer diagnosis in February 2024 and it is no surprise that she turned to the comfort of her most knowledgable subject for this visit. ‌ The early years has been described as her “life’s work”, and the proof was certainly demonstrated today when the city - a world leader in the subject of early years development of children - bestowed her with its highest honour. ‌ READ MORE: Princess of Wales wants children to 'slow down' as world is so 'fast-paced'READ MORE: Princess of Wales greeted by thousands of noisy fans as she kicks off milestone tripView 2 ImagesKate waves to the huge crowds(Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images) The last year since Kate fortunately announced she was in remission from cancer following six months of chemotherapy has been a staggered approach. While the King has been keen to cement his legacy by carry on with an unrelenting schedule, travelling across the country and taking on several international tours, Kate’s approach has taken a different path. ‌ View 2 ImagesKate hugs a little girl during a visit to a school (Image: AP) As much as the early years is considered a lifelong project, there is certainly the feeling that where the Prince and Princess of Wales are concerned, they are laying the foundations for their future. Yet, this week there has been much excitement in royal circles about what that future holds. ‌ The princess is “feeling well and energised” I am told, and her Italian Job - her first official international visit for there and a half years - signifies a new dawn for Kate and her work. She intends to use her platform to launch a “global conversation”, with experts, educators and lawmakers, to potentially change the lives of millions of children around the world. Article continues belowThese are huge ambitions, not only for the princess but for the rest of the royal family, who despite the best efforts of everyone else on the team, has undoubtedly missed her star quality. The future looks bright now that Kate is back and long may that continue. Get the inside scoop on the monarchy with Mirror RoyalWHATSAPP GROUP: Be first to get the biggest royal bombshells and exclusives to your phone by joining our Royal WhatsApp here. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. NEWSLETTER: Or sign up to the Mirror's Royal newsletter here to get all the biggest royal news and exclusive pictures, straight to your inbox.