William and Kate's spokesman told People that the royal couple saw the reception as an opportunity “to meet as many Pakistanis as possible . . . including children and young people, leaders from government, business and the charity sector, inspiring conservationists, and well-known cultural figures and sporting stars.”
In a speech at the event, the Duke discussed issues such as education for girls and climate change and urged Britain and Pakistan to continue to work together.
“Whether in Pakistan or the U.K. or elsewhere on our planet – we face shared global challenges. The effects of climate change threaten the present and the future – and therefore demand a concerted effort by everyone,” he said.
Prince William - who shares Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis with Kate - also noted the delicious food they’ve been enjoying while on the royal tour.
“Catherine and I have been honoured by the hospitality you have shown us, and we have certainly managed to make our way through a record breaking amount of food so generously offered by our hosts,” he said.
“I am struck by the great strides Pakistan has made since its birth seventy-two years ago,” he continued. “The view from this hill would have been quite different when my grandmother, The Queen, first visited over half a century ago.
“Looking out, one would have seen the beginnings of a city under construction, yet to become the great capital that it is today.
“And with successive visits by my mother and my father, this view has continued to change, with the city constantly growing and with it my family’s affection for Pakistan.”