16 February 2011
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the upcoming tour of His Royal Highness Prince William of Wales and Miss Catherine Middleton to Canada:
"Canada is delighted that Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton will be travelling to Canada as they embark on their first overseas tour as a married couple. Their tour will take place from June 30 to July 8, 2011 and will include Alberta, the Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and the National Capital Region.
"Their decision to come to Canada first is a testament to our country's very close relationship with the Royal Family – a bond of loyalty and affection illustrated by the crowds that turned out for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh last year, and the mounting excitement for Her Majesty's upcoming Diamond Jubilee which will be celebrated in Canada throughout 2012.
"Canada looks forward to welcoming the young couple this summer and providing them with all that our country has to offer – including, of course, the special hospitality and warmth reserved for members of the Royal Family.
"It is my sincere hope that their tour will be the start of a lasting relationship with Canada by the Royal Couple.
"On behalf of all Canadians, I congratulate Prince William and Miss Middleton on their upcoming wedding and look forward to many more tours in the future."
