KUWAIT: The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall begin their spring tour of the Gulf states today.

The 10-day trip will see them travel from Kuwait to Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates to "reinforce Britain's friendship with key allies".

It is a region of the world where the UK has strong political, commercial and trading links, a large expatriate community and a military presence.

A statement from Clarence House read: "The visit will advance key British Government priorities in the promotion of moderate Islam and energy security."