Queen Máxima of the Netherlands was given a bloomin' brilliant welcome during an engagement in Pakistan, where she was showered with two large bouquets of roses and lillies. The Dutch royal, who is nearing the end of her three-day visit, needed more than one helping hand to assist her in receiving the flowers.
Struggling to carry the beautiful bouquets, Máxima pulled a funny face as she took the flowers from a young girl.
The queen, who had left behind her three daughters and her husband King Willem-Alexander at home, was visiting Islamabad to learn about the Benazir Income Support Programme that, in particular, helps women.
© Photo: RexQueen Máxima was given a bloomin' brilliant welcome
The programme was set up in 2008 to financially support the most needy families, by giving them access to digital bank accounts and therefore increasing their independence.
Máxima met various women who are eligible for the service, who proudly showed the queen their cards and the process they go through to use them.
© Photo: RexThe royal is in Pakistan to promote financial access to all
The focus of Máxima's trip is to promote financial access to all. She is making the visit in her capacity as the United Nations secretary general's special advocate for inclusive finance for development.
The 44-year-old, who looked impeccably stylish in a burgundy top and pleated skirt on the second day of her tour, has taken part in roundtable discussions on finance, visited the Prime Minister's Youth Programme in Islamabad and also spoken at a World Bank Group launch event.
© Photo: RexMáxima works as a special advocate for the United Nations
Shortly after touching down on Tuesday, the queen headed straight to her first meeting with the State Bank of Pakistan, where she discussed how banks are making financial services accessible to more people.
Once again Máxima showed off her sartorial prowess, giving a nod to her host country in an elaborately patterned skirt, chocolate brown silk blouse and matching silk shawl.
