Prince Charles, Duchess of Cornwall land in Iqaluit to kick off royal tour

Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall returned to where it all began Thursday as they touched down in Iqaluit to kick off yet another royal visit — culminating this weekend with Canada 150 festivities on Parliament Hill.

Charles acknowledged the sentimental nature of his being back in Canada’s Far North, which played a key role in his first visit to Canada as prince back in 1970, when the Northwest Territories was marking its own centennial.

“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, after gamely attempting a traditional Inuit greeting.

“I have never forgotten the warmth of the welcome from the Inuit people, which made me feel instantly at home, as indeed I have with all Canadians on my subsequent visits.”

The day began with the royal couple’s Airbus taxiing to a stop on a windswept tarmac, the Prince of Wales flag flying from the cockpit window. A military honour guard that included the Canadian Rangers was on hand for greetings.

So too was a phalanx of dignitaries, including Gov. Gen. David Johnston, Nunavut Commissioner Nellie Kusugak and Premier Peter Taptuna.

After inspecting the guard of Canadian Rangers, Charles made his way to a stage outside the legislative building for the official welcoming ceremony, which also included a stirring performance by indigenous throat singers.

“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 — clad in a checkered suit with a pink shirt, pocket square and flower on his lapel — said he hopes the celebration of Confederation’s 150th anniversary will encourage all Canadians to look forward with hope and inspiration.

“Each time I visit Canada, I see the strength and resilience of the people who live here,” he said.

“The importance of their indigenous traditions and the vision and drive that helped shape this extraordinary nation.