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At first glance it might seem like they have little in common.
One is the king’s gruff and no-nonsense sister, famous for her direct approach to royal duties.
The other is her softer sister-in-law, popular thanks to her feminine style and understanding ways.
But the Princess Royal and the Duchess of Edinburgh share an impressive work ethic, so it was probably inevitable that they would find themselves working together at some point.
Princess Anne speaks to war veterans at a reception at Buckingham Palace
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh shakes hands with Remembrance director Philippa Rawlinson
They even color coordinated when they held a reception on behalf of the King.
They always seemed to enjoy each other’s company, as seen here at the Westmorland County Show in Cumbria in 2021.
Last week they stood in for the King, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment, at a reception at Buckingham Palace for veterans of the 1950-1953 Korean War.
Anne and Sophie have rarely been paired in this way, however, they seemed to have a good relationship and were an instant hit with fans on social media.
“I just love those ladies,” one wrote.
Others commented: “I like this partnership, two fantastic women” and “it’s lovely to see such wonderful women sharing this event,” another wrote.
The princess, 73, and the duchess, 59, have been friends for years and have been seen together at social events from Royal Ascot to the (slightly less prominent) Westmorland County Show in Cumbria.
But it is quite unusual for them to organize a work meeting together.
Palace insiders said there are no plans to make a feature of the couple, which came about because of the King’s condition.
Other royals are stepping forward when their schedules are free and their interests align.
Sophie has engagements mainly alone or with her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, who was visiting Uganda this week.
So the Duchess was free to join the formidable Princess Anne, who told the 200 or so guests at the Palace that she was “very pleased that Sophie and I had been asked to help.”
Princess Anne and Sophie speak to Major General Eldon Millar and Yoon Yeocheol, South Korea’s ambassador to the UK.
Sophie and Anne sit together in the carriage for the Order of the Garter ceremony
Here they are seen leaving the National Thanksgiving Service as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022.
It was no secret that Anne and Sofia were the late queen’s favorites.
After all, it’s no secret that both women had been favorites of the late Queen.
In 2015, both accompanied Her Majesty to the centenary meeting of the Women’s Institutes, a great compliment considering the affection with which Queen Elizabeth had the WI.
Maybe it’s time to see a little more of this dynamic duo?