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Prince William, Duchess Kate to test their political skills on action-packed US visit

Rather than visiting on behalf of the Queen, this time they will be expressly visiting on behalf of the British government

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive at their New York hotel. Photo: EPA

Prince William and his pregnant wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, are flying to New York this week for a glitzy visit that marks a step-up in their role representing Britain abroad, royal commentators said.

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The three-day trip will see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, both 32, mix diplomacy with supporting their favourite causes and promoting British business interests.

Crucially for William, he will meet US President Barack Obama in the White House on Monday for talks about illegal wildlife trading.

William, second in line to the throne after his father Prince Charles, is starting to do more of the long-haul work for the British monarchy as Queen Elizabeth II approaches her 90s.

“It’s a significant trip which is trying to establish William further in a diplomatic, statesmanlike role,” said Robert Jobson, author of on William, Kate and their baby son Prince George – who will not be on the visit.

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The official visit will be only the second undertaken by the royal couple outside the Commonwealth family of nations, following a brief stop in California at the end of their 2011 Canada tour.

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