Sydney - DPA
Meghan, the duchess of Sussex, was rushed from an indoor market in Fiji after her security became concerned about crowds building in an enclosed and dark area, it was reported Wednesday.
Her visit to the Suva Municipal Market to meet stall holders involved in a United Nations women’s project was supposed to last 20 minutes, but her security team quickly ushered her out of the building after just six minutes.
The duchess gave an apologetic wave to her fans as she exited.
Reporters at the scene said Fijians were enthusiastic about seeing the royal and had started singing, but were not out of control.
The decision to leave early came directly from Kensington Palace officials, Australia's News Ltd reported.
Earlier in the day, Meghan gave her first official speech of the regional royal tour, emphasizing to university students how women’s education benefits all society.
Speaking at the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Meghan told of her own struggle to pay her way through university in America.
“It was through scholarships, financial aid programs and work-study where my earnings from a job on campus went directly towards my tuition — that I was able to attend university,” she told the crowd, News Limited reported.
“And, without question, it was worth every effort. Everyone should be afforded the opportunity to receive the education they want, but more importantly the education they have the right to receive. And for women and girls in developing countries, this is vital."
She said providing women with access to education is the key to economic and social development.
“Because when girls are given the right tools to succeed, they can create incredible futures, not only for themselves but also for those around them.”
It is only the second public speech given by the Duchess of Sussex since her marriage to Prince Harry in May. Her first was at the launch of a cookbook in London.
On Tuesday night, Prince Harry accompanied Meghan as she stunned at a state dinner, looking glamorous in a full length caped blue evening gown by designer Safiyaa with diamond drop earings.
Royal fans also praised the prince for being a supportive husband who was spotted joining his pregnant wife in toasting with water instead of alcohol.
The royal couple fly to Tonga on Thursday.