The Duke of Cambridge to visit Dusseldorf , State of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

The Duke of Cambridge, at the request of Her Majesty's Government, will visit Dusseldorf on Tuesday 23rd August to attend a series of events honouring the role of British Forces Germany (BFG), and celebrating the 70th anniversary of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). During the visit, His Royal Highness will see a BFG military parade with NRW Minister President Hannelore Kraft, meet BFG personnel at a reception, and attend a 70th anniversary gala alongside Chancellor Angela Merkel.

NRW was established on 23rd August 1946 by the British Military Government, following the end of the Second World War. For almost 70 years, a large British military presence has remained in the region – known as British Forces Germany – playing a vital role during the Cold War and in the reconstruction of its area of occupation. The strong links between NRW and Britain remain today, with approximately 27,000 British citizens living in the state, and 1,400 British firms basing their companies there, including BP and Vodafone.

The events of the 23rd August in Dusseldorf will celebrate both the historic and current ties between NRW and Britain. To commemorate Britain's military contribution, The Duke will see NRW Minister President Hannelore Kraft present the Fahnenband, the federal state's highest military honour, to the 20th Armoured Brigade, in acknowledgment of their service to the defence of Germany. Following the parade, His Royal Highness will attend a reception in Dusseldorf's NRW Forum, where he'll meet members of the Brigade and their families.

In the evening, the state will host a 70th anniversary gala in the city's Tonhalle, with musical performances and short films celebrating the history of the NRW state. The Duke, alongside Chancellor Angela Merkel and NRW Minister President Kraft, will deliver a speech during the ceremony. Prior to the start of the anniversary gala, His Royal Highness will briefly meet the Chancellor.