Meghan Markle appears in public for first time since father's arrest

Meghan Markle made her first public appearance since her father, Thomas Markle, was arrested in Florida over allegations involving child sexual abuse images.

The American actress and humanitarian was seen in Brussels, Belgium, on Tuesday during a visit with her husband, Prince Harry, according to an AFP report.

The couple arrived at the European Parliament to attend an event focused on online child safety, where photographers gathered to greet them. Meghan remained largely quiet and did not respond to reporters' questions about her father's arrest.

Thomas Markle was arrested in Florida last Friday and charged over alleged possession of images related to child sexual abuse.

Meghan and Harry were both expected to speak at the event. However, only Harry addressed the opening session, held to unveil the Lost Screen Memorial, a special installation commemorating 50 children who died after experiencing online abuse and exploitation.

A source quoted by Britain's Daily Telegraph said Meghan had been deeply distressed by her father's arrest and was not in a position to speak publicly about the matter at the moment.

The couple appeared calm as they arrived at the event on Tuesday morning. Meghan wore a black outfit with a small poppy emblem pinned to her chest, while Harry wore a dark blue formal outfit with a matching poppy and a dark tie.

The poppy symbol is traditionally worn to remember military personnel who died in wars.

Meghan was seen holding Harry's hand as they attended the event.

It was their first joint public appearance at an overseas event since returning to the UK after spending six years living in the United States.

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