Kate Middleton is like to her mother-in-law, princess Diana, as she marks her trip to Italy.

The Princess of Wales, who is currently visiting Reggio Emilia, has seemingly displayed the same confidence and warmth like that of her mother-in-law.

Writing in Hello! magazine, royal editor and expert, Emily Nash, spoke about her recent conversation with Italian journalist Paolo Rosato about Kate’s visit to Reggio Emilia, Italy.

Nash quotes Rosato: "[Kate] is the most popular. She is like Diana Spencer was."

Rosato continued: "I think Italian people see Kate as following on from Diana. For my generation, Diana was so important. I'm 44 but my daughter is 9, and she knows Kate and likes her very much."

Nash then shared: "I think their stories are close. She has replaced Diana in people's affections, so the announcement of her trip here was a moment of joy and great happiness."

She added: "She brings the same glamour and excitement [as Diana], certainly, but what struck me repeatedly was the genuine personal warmth people seem to feel towards her."