Prince Charles, Camilla land in Iqaluit to kick off royal tour
IQALUIT, NUNAVUT — 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 marked 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.”
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 the official welcoming ceremony, which also included a stirring performance by indigenous throat singers.
“Your visit means a great deal to us,” said Johnston.
The prince said he hopes the celebration of Confederation’s 150th anniversary will encourage all Canadians to look forward with hope and inspiration.
The royals capped off their visit at a community gathering and feast hosted by the premier in Sylvia Grennell Park. Festivities took place atop a large hill where the royals could see water flowing in the background.
Dozens of community members attended the sun-drenched event, including Inuit elders, who shared bannock and tea with the royal couple before their departure for Ottawa. Friday, Charles and Camilla travel to Canadian Forces Base Trenton, where the Prince of Wales will meet military personnel who specialize in airlift and search and rescue operations.
They will spend Canada Day in Ottawa to mark the country’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.