The Queen selects Meghan Markle for important royal duty

Meghan Markle has clearly been given the seal of approval by the Queen.

Just last week, the pair was seen smiling and laughing as they participated in their first joint public engagement in Cheshire, and now the British monarch has taken the friendship one step further.

It's been announced that the new Duchess of Sussex will fill in for Her Majesty to present awards to young people across the Commonwealth who have done "exceptional" work in their respective countries.

According to the Express, Meghan and Prince Harry "will welcome those in the Queen's Young Leaders programme to Buckingham Palace this summer, continuing the role started by the Queen during her lifetime of service to the Commonwealth nations".

The fact that Meghan has been chosen is seen by royal watchers as a huge vote of confidence, as it's an initiative said to have been close to the Queen's heart since it started five years ago.

The pair were very happy and relaxed together. Photo / Getty Images

It aims to honour those who have made changes to their communities, in mental health advocacy, tackling violence against women and saving lives.

It had previously fallen on the Queen to welcome the participants of the Young Leaders' programme to Buckingham Palace, but it's understood she's now passed the responsibility to the royal newlyweds.

When Harry was announced as the Queen's replacement in April, he made it clear he was very excited by the honour.

"In my new role I will work to support the Queen, my father the Prince of Wales, and my brother William, all of whom know that young people are the answer to the challenges of today."

Harry also indicated he was hoping Meghan would eventually join him in working on the programme.

"I am also incredibly grateful that the woman I am about to marry, Meghan, will be joining me in this work, of which she too is hugely excited to take part in."

It's been just a month since Meghan officially joined the family, but clearly she's already proven her worth to Queen Elizabeth II.