Sadiq Khan’s presence in Brazil sparks conversation between Prince William and Rio’s mayor

Discussing his conversation with William, the mayor told the press: “He seemed to be very interested in lots of things.

“We spoke about politics… my politics, talk about the landscape of Rio, he asked about the favelas. The thing about the forest jumping into the city.

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“We are having a meeting here with a bunch of mayors, so Sadiq Khan is here, so we spoke a little bit about the role of mayors. We spoke a lot.”

The mayor did not reveal what was said during the exchange, confirming only that the two spoke privately.

Mr Paes added that William received a “typically informal” Brazilian welcome, as the prince prepared to spend three days in Rio de Janeiro.

He said: “It’s never easy to do with the British royalty – how about the protocols? But, I mean, he was very nice. Amazed with the beauty of the city, and we are very happy to have him here. It’s a big honour for the city.”

The mayor also joked that he is “still the King” as he declared that the city would belong to Prince William for the next 72 hours, handing him the key to the metropolis. He noted that it was “symbolic” to have the future King of England in Brazil.

Mr Paes explained: “It’s very symbolic. It shows, first, the connection between Great Britain and Brazil, which is a long relation. And, I mean, it’s like people like him here, so we were very glad to have him.”

When asked about recent security concerns and whether the Prince of Wales appeared concerned, he said: “I mean, yeah, I spoke a lot, I try to explain to him the security issue of the city a little bit.

“I mean, obviously, it’s much more deep than something that you can explain in five minutes. But it was a good opportunity to explain.”

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The Prince of Wales was presented with the key to Rio at the top of Sugarloaf Mountain as Prince William took in the view of the city.

William travelled up to the landmark by cable car, where he was formally greeted by Mr Paes.

The prince spent time at the top of the mountain greeting tourists before journeying on.

He is set to host the Earthshot Prize Awards on November 5, which is now heading into its fifth year.

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Before setting off from the UK, he said: “As I depart for Rio de Janeiro, I am excited for my first visit and to experience Brazil’s vibrant culture, its extraordinary biodiversity, and above all, the warmth of its people.

“With the world’s eyes turning to Brazil this week, there is no better place to celebrate bold climate leadership.

“Hosting the Earthshot Prize allows us to not only recognise those driving change, but to be inspired by them.

“When we work together with optimism and courage, a more sustainable future is within our reach.”