Kate MiddletonandPrince Williamattended a special party at the Mayan ruins of Cahal Pech on the final night of their visit to Belize on Monday.
The couple was greeted with cheers as they arrived at the reception, which celebrated the very best of Belizean culture.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met with community leaders, well-known Belizeans, and members of the government throughout the evening.
William also gave a speech, telling guests: “Catherine and I are delighted to be here with you tonight in Belize at the beginning of our first official visit to the Caribbean. You could not have chosen a more beautiful and evocative setting, here at Cahal Pech.”
Kate Middleton and Prince William attending a reception in Belize on March 21, 2022.Samir Hussein/WireImage
“Earlier today we also had the chance to visit the extraordinary ruins at Caracol, deep in the jungle, and marvel at the ingenuity of your Mayan ancestors,” he continued. “These sites are a testament to Belize’s long and proud history and culture. And climbing up all those steps is very good exercise!”
Kate Middleton and Prince William.Samir Hussein/WireImage
He also recalled his grandmotherQueen Elizabeth’s trip to Belize in the ’90s: “I am honored to convey the very warmest wishes from my grandmother, The Queen of Belize, on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee. She always speaks so fondly of her visits to Belize, which of course included a memorable stop here at Cahal Pech in 1994.”
Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Belize in 1994.Martin Keene/GETTY
He continued, “Yesterday we also had a taste of Belize’s wonderful cultural diversity — from Mayan chocolate to Garifuna drumming. And yes, you even got us dancing! Belize may be small, but your rich blend of ethnic groups contributes to the harmonious tapestry of life.”
He went on to praise Belize’s support for the people of Ukraine and their response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Belize has joined many others in condemning the invasion and standing up for the principles of international law, peace and security,” William said. “Today we think of those struggling in Ukraine and we stand with them in solidarity.
“The last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic have been hugely challenging, but it is reassuring to have heard from so many people that things are on the up. COVID rates are low, the vaccination program is going well, and it is wonderful to see the hotels filling with tourists again.”
Kate Middleton.Samir Hussein/WireImage
Finally, he shared that he and Kate hope to bring their three children —Prince George, 8,Princess Charlotte, 6, andPrince Louis, 3 — to Belize one day.
“We hope to return again soon and to show our children this wonderful country,” he said. “They are rather jealous that they are not here with us now!”
Earlier in the day, William and Kate played tourists as theytook in the ancient Mayan ruins of Caracolin the Chiquibul Forest where they learned about the history and were taken to the stunning Caana (“sky palace”).
On Tuesday, they head to Jamaica and then on to the Bahamas on Thursday.
Kate Middleton and Prince William.Samir Hussein/Pool/WireImage
William and Kate’s tour has already been met with controversy. Over the weekend, they were forced to cancel one of the first stops during their visit to Belize afterprotests broke out ahead of the couple’s arrival.
Villagers in Indian Creek were photographed on Friday with signs saying, “Prince Williamleave our land.”
Prince William and Kate Middleton visit the British Army Training Support Unit (BATSUB) at the Chiquibul Forest Reserve.JOHAN ORDONEZ/AFP/getty
The couple will reportedlyface another protestas they travel to Jamaica.
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According toThe Independent, a protest calling for slavery reparations has been scheduled in Jamaica’s capital city of Kingston. As the country marks its 60th anniversary of independence, a planned demonstration is due to take place on Tuesday — the same day the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive in Jamaica.
source: people.com
