Prince Charles visits Canada with abuses of Indigenous in spotlight
Prince Charles on Tuesday emphasised the importance of acknowledging Canada’s past abuses of its Indigenous community and described reconciliation as "vital" as he kicked off a three-day visit together with his wife Camilla.
The 73-year-old heir to the British throne, representing Queen Elizabeth on the tour, faces more attention than ever on his future role due to his mother's age and failing health.
The visit comes as part of a series by senior British royals to some of the 14 Commonwealth countries outside the UK where the queen -- who at 96 is celebrating this year her record-breaking 70-year reign -- is also head of state.
In St. John's, Newfoundland, Charles and Camilla were welcomed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as well as Canada's first Indigenous governor general, Mary Simon, Indigenous leaders in colourful ceremonial dress, and a boisterous crowd.
The country's history of abuse of its Indigenous population quickly came to the fore.
"We must find new ways to come to terms with the darker and more difficult aspects of the past. Acknowledging, reconciling and striving to do better, it is a process that starts with listening," Charles said.
Charles said he looked forward to discussing "the vital process of reconciliation in this country" with Simon, who was last year named Canada's first Indigenous governor general.
Simon urged Charles to engage with Indigenous people during the visit, saying this will "promote healing, understanding and respect," and "also promote reconciliation."
