William And Kate Reveal First Official Visit
Prince William and Kate Middleton will make their first official overseas trip as a married couple to Canada. Skip related content
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The future King and his bride accepted an invitation from the Canadian government to tour the country between June 30 and July 8.
The nine-day trip will include visits to Alberta, the Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and the National Capital region.The couple's visit will coincide with Canada Day celebrations in the capital Ottawa on July 1.
Canada's prime minister Stephen Harper invited the couple after they announced their engagement last November - and he is likely to host an official banquet in their honour.
Mr Harper said: "[The couple's] decision to come to Canada first is a testament to our country's very close relationship with the Royal family.
"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 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."
Royal aides have examined the details of the trip, during which Ms Middleton's every move will be under the microscope.
William is understood to be closely involved in organising the programme to ensure it does not overwhelm his new wife.
It is thought Ms Middleton has agreed to do at least one solo engagement.
Prince William has twice before been to Canada.
In 1991, he and his brother Prince Harry accompanied their parents on a five-day tour of Ontario, taking in Niagara Falls and Ottawa.
In 1998, Prince Charles took both princes on a skiing holiday to Whistler, British Colombia.
Canada is a natural choice for the royal couple's first official overseas tour.
The north American country is a realm, meaning the Queen is head of state and sovereign, so William is not a foreign royal but a prince of Canada.
The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh were warmly received when they toured Canada last year.
Throughout their married life William and Kate will be expected to make regular overseas visits as representatives of the British Monarchy.
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