ROYALS ARRIVE FOR CANADA 150.
IQALUIT, NUNAVUT • Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall touched down in Iqaluit Thursday to kick off another royal visit — culminating this weekend with Canada 150 festivities on Parliament Hill.
Charles acknowledged the sentimental nature of his return to Canada’s Far North, part of his first visit to Canada as prince back in 1970.
“Arriving here today brings back the happiest of memories chiefly because this is where I began my first visit to this great country almost 50 years ago,” he said. “I have never forgotten the warmth of the welcome from the Inuit people, which made me feel instantly at home.”
The day began with a military honour guard marking their arrival, where they were greeted by a phalanx of dignitaries, including Gov. Gen. David Johnston and Nunavut Premier Peter Taptuna.
“Your visit means a great deal to us,” Johnston said during the official welcoming ceremony, which included a stirring performance by indigenous throat singers.
The prince said he hopes the celebration of Confederation’s 150th anniversary will encourage all Canadians to look forward with hope and inspiration.
“I pray that the celebration of 150 years of Confederation will encourage all Canadians not just to look back with pride, but also to look forward with hope and inspiration.”
On Friday, Charles and Camilla travel to Ontario to visit a farmer’s market in Prince Edward County before flying to Ottawa for Canada Day.