Iqaluit, Nunavut, Thursday, June 29, 2017

What a pleasure for my wife, Sharon, and me to be here with all of you and to welcome Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall to Canada at this very special time in our history: the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

Your Royal Highnesses, we are delighted to see you again and to have the opportunity to greet you in Nunavut, which means “our land” in Inuktitut.

Your arrival in Iqaluit underscores many of the overarching themes of your visit, including reconciliation; diversity and inclusion; environmental stewardship; and young people.

I would like to thank Your Royal Highnesses for highlighting these important themes during your visit. Many northerners and indeed many Canadians share your preoccupations. A reconciled, diverse, inclusive and sustainable country—one that encourages and provides opportunities for young people—is the country we desire to build and to work at every day.

We have much to be thankful for, but also much work to do. We cannot be complacent, and your focus on these matters will help to further our efforts.

Over the next three days, first here in Iqaluit, then in Prince Edward Country, Ontario, and finally in the National Capital Region, you will share in some meaningful moments with Canadians. That includes with members of the Canadian Armed Forces, who serve our country with such dedication and honour.

Your visit means a great deal to us. Throughout our history, the Crown has played a key role in our constitutional monarchy and our parliamentary democracy. As governor general, I have had the immense privilege of acting on behalf of our Queen, who has devotedly served this country for 65 years.

Your Royal Highnesses, your contributions to our country are similarly appreciated by Canadians. They include the important work that has been done through the Prince’s Charities, which partners with civic groups across Canada on issues of common concern.

As you undertake your Royal Tour, I know you will encounter many warm and enthusiastic people eager to share their experiences and hopes for Canada with you. I thank you for your presence and for taking the time to engage with Canadians.

Have a joyful and inspiring stay in Canada!

Thank you.