If Prince Harry And Meghan Markle As they began their four-day tour of Colombia, their visit was described as “self-promotion” by a royal author and expert.
The Sussexes landed in the capital of Bogota and were welcomed by Vice President Francia Márquezand her husband, Rafael Yerney Pinillo.
Royal author Robert Jobson believes there is only one reason why the Montecito duo have decided to take part. He told Express.co.uk: “Harry and Meghan, however, have one reason for this 'tour' – self-promotion, to keep themselves in the spotlight so they can continue to trade on their royal connections while demanding privacy when they are free.”
He added that the couple's visit had “raised more questions than answers”. He added: “When Harry and Meghan touched down, it wasn't just the Colombian sun that had people squinting. It was the blinding glare of their celebrity. Confused locals are asking: 'Are they here to help?'”
Robert wondered if the duo were a “glossy distraction” and questioned who paid for the couple's “flights, security” and “luxury accommodations.”
The royal expert, who also wrote the book 'Catherine, the Princess of Wales', added: 'Their arrival has previously exposed the deep divisions in a country still struggling to find its way.
“Official royal tours commissioned by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office serve a variety of purposes. These purposes are all linked to the unique roles that royal families play in their respective countries and within the wider international community.”
It comes as it is claimed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are “placing a burden” on Colombia, which may have “limited capabilities to keep them safe,” according to a former Palace insider.
The Colombian government is expected to cover the cost of security for their meetings with high-profile figures such as Marquez. However, the Sussexes are also believed to have private security when they visit locations such as Bogotá, Cartagena and Cali.
During the first day of the tour, Vice President Francia Marquez Prince Harry And Meghan Markle to visit the Centro Nacional Cultura Popular public school in the city center, where the couple spoke to staff and students aged 12 to 18. Principal Leonel Umaña, 51, said the visit focused on an anti-cyberbullying project.