Thousands Welcome Prince Charles and Camilla to PNG

Port Moresby city’s afternoon heat is usually stifling enough to keep even the most hardy person indoors or seeking shade, but this did not stop thousands of city residents from converging on the Jackson International Airport this afternoon to witness the arrival of His Royal Highness Prince Charles the Prince of Wales and his wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.

Part of the crowd gathered to welcome the Royal couple at the Jacksons Airport

The crowd numbers grew from a scattering of people at about 3pm to several thousand strong by 6pm, the scheduled arrival time. People came from as far off as Konedobu and Gerehu to welcome the royal pair.

And the cheers they gave when the Royal Australian Air Force jet carrying the Prince’s entourage touched down was easily surpassed by the roar they let forth when Prince Charles stepped from the plane. The Duchess stepped off a respectful meter behind.

Soldier of the Royal Pacific Islands Regiment who march in.

For many who came to see the Royal couple, it was their first glimpse of Royalty. And they were not disappointed as Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla stopped briefly to be accepted by waiting dignitaries and members of the Papua New Guinea Defense Force guard of honor.

Konedobu resident Nuxie Wemin borught his daughter Lavinia, aged 8 and son John aged 7 with him and easily blended into the crowd of eagerly waiting people. When asked how he saw the visit, he explained that he wanted to share the experience with his children and was happy the couple chose to visit PNG.

HRH Prince Charles inspects the Guard of Honor soon after his arrival

Hundreds of school children waved British and PNG flags and cheered out welcoming messages as the entourage was whisked away to their hotel shortly after.

The royal couple is scheduled to visit Motuan Village, Boera, located on the outskirts of the city tomorrow.

Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla are in the country for a three day visit to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond jubilee. Their thirteen day Oceania tour will include stops in Australia and New Zealand.