King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium have arrived in Astana on a three-day state visit and have already shared their first images from Kazakhstan, the website infohub.kz reports.
The photos were published on the official Instagram account of the Belgian royal family. In the Kazakh capital, the royal couple was welcomed by President of Kazakhstan Qasym-Jomart Toqaev.
Among the first images published is Baiterek, one of the capital's main architectural landmarks.
"Inspired by an ancient nomadic legend, this iconic monument reflects both the rich traditions of Kazakhstan and its aspiration toward the future," the monarchs wrote in their description of Baiterek.
Queen Mathilde's outfit drew particular attention. For one of her appearances, she chose a red ensemble in the finest traditions of the monarchy, complemented by a scarlet hat.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde later visited a children's rehabilitation center in Astana. The facility treats children with complex neuropsychiatric conditions and musculoskeletal disorders.
The president and the royal couple spoke with the young patients, their parents and medical staff.
Philippe had previously visited Kazakhstan three times as crown prince. This trip is his first state visit to the country since he ascended the Belgian throne in 2013.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde are in Astana from October 11 to 14. The program includes talks with Toqaev, a meeting of the Kazakhstan–Belgium business council and a forum of university rectors from the two countries.