Meghan Markle dazzles in navy during ‘powerful’ meeting at Buckingham Palace

MEGHAN MARKLE met with Commonwealth scholars to hear about their commitment to tackling global challenges, ahead of her final public appearance as a senior royal.The Duchess of Sussex, who is the patron of the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), talked animatedly with the students at Buckingham palace before she attended the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey on Monday with her husband Prince Harry.Now, newly released photographs of Meghan show her wearing an elegant, fitted navy cap-sleeve dress with a neck scarf.She is seen listening to one scholar and posing in the centre of another photo.The photographs were taken by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s wedding photographer Chris Allerton in the Queen’s 1844 room.Meghan told the scholars:

”Everyone is connected because of this very holistic approach to tackling climate change.I love how solution-based you all are.".A source said: "She was thrilled to have the chance to meet inspirational scholars doing ground-breaking work in the fields of climate and the environment, sustainable cities, health and innovation and technology.".Meghan was made royal patron of ACU in January 2019.She took over the role from the Queen who held the post for 33 years.After stepping down on March 31, the Duchess will continue to be the royal patron of ACU.An Instagram post from the couple’s Sussex Royal account also shows a video of Meghan talking with scholars.The post also included the moment the Duchess posed for a photo with the scholars and the song ‘Pata Pata’ by South African singer Miriam Makheba.The post included a heartfelt caption which described what the Duchess and the scholars were discussing.It read: “The Duchess spoke with Scholars studying and researching important areas surrounding; cleaning up plastic pollution in our oceans, helping to build more sustainable cities, improving health outcomes for citizens, and supporting decent work and economic growth.“Paving the way as the next generation of leaders, these inspirational scholars, are spread far across the Commonwealth from Malawi to Malaysia, Ghana to Sri Lanka – all of whom will use the skills and knowledge they gain while studying in the UK to make a difference when they return to their home countries.“The Duchess, who also attended university with support of a scholarship, is a strong advocate of accessible education for all.“As the Royal Patron of The Association of Commonwealth Universities (@The_ACU_Official) since January 2019, The Duchess has met and engaged with students, academics, and staff from ACU member universities across the Commonwealth to learn more about the vital work they do to address global challenges.“As President and Vice President of The @Queens_Commonwealth_Trust, The Duke and Duchess thank all those who are working to give access to education for all.”.Secretary general of the ACU Joanna Newman said the Duchess’ understanding of the value of higher education was key.She said: "She's a very powerful spokesperson for us.”

Timothy Biswick, a University of Leicester research fellow from Malawi, who is looking at microplastic pollution in the oceans, said of the duchess: "She knows what she's talking about in terms of climate change."She was talking about things in quite some detail, so you know that this person knows what they are talking about and are passionate about it.".Instagram users were more than complimentary of the Duchess’ appearance.One user said: “She’s so diplomatic, inspiring, and powerful.”.Another said: “Couldn’t be more proud.”.Another commented: “So regal and beautiful!!”.