Photo:Chris Jackson/Getty

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh and Prince William

Chris Jackson/Getty

Prince Williamteamed up with his auntSophie, Duchess of Edinburghto highlight an important cause.

And Prince William, who turns 41 this month, brought along a surprise guest: his aunt Sophie.

Kensington Palace said Prince Edward’s wife, who herself has a strong interest in wildlife protection, was “delighted to join the Prince of Wales at the event this evening to show her support for United for Wildlife.”

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Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh and Prince William

Prince William said at the event: “The murder of Anton Mzimba is a stark reminder of the daily dangers that all rangers face around the world protecting the natural world from the international criminal organizations that seek to profit illegally from wildlife, and I’m proud to see his life and legacy recognized inRhino Man."

“This is not a burden they can bear alone,” he continued. “An effective response to this vicious crime demands attention and collaboration across the entire chain of criminal activity, not just on the front line. That is why United for Wildlife, through its global financial and transport task forces, and wider alliance of partners, has taken action to ensure that those involved in wildlife crime will be met with an international response as powerful and coordinated as any other serious and organized crime.”

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Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh and Prince William

Buckingham Palacesaid in a statement to PEOPLE that Sophie is “deeply saddened” about the death. “Her Royal Highness’s deepest condolences and sympathies go to all of Ms. Holland’s family,” the message said.

source: people.com