Statement of Governor Kaine on Details of Queen's Visit to Virginia
RICHMOND - Governor Timothy M. Kaine released the following statement today on news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, II and His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh will visit Richmond, Jamestown and Williamsburg in May. The Duke will also visit Norfolk. The Queen and Duke will travel to Virginia May 3 and 4, 2007 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Jamestown. Governor Timothy M. Kaine is the official host of The Queen’s visit to Virginia.
“Today we celebrate the news that Virginia’s capital will be the first American city to officially welcome The Queen of England on her first State visit to the United States in 16 years.
“The Royal visit will allow us to make history by marking history and the strong ties between our two countries. The trip will highlight the changes and discoveries that have been made at Jamestown since the Royal couple first visited in 1957 and celebrate our nations’ continued partnership and friendship.
“As our Commonwealth continues to heal following last week’s tragedy at Virginia Tech, we look to the historic visit from The Queen as an opportunity to highlight Virginia’s natural beauty, rich history and cultural heritage to an international audience.
“I encourage Virginians to help us celebrate The Queen’s visit to Virginia – invite your family and friends to come and experience not only The Queen’s visit on May 3 and 4, but also America’s Anniversary Weekend in Jamestown, May 11-13. It is truly an incredible time to visit Virginia.”
Buckingham Palace has released the following information on the Royal visit to Virginia:
May 3, 2007: Richmond
Afternoon: The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh arrive at the Executive Mansion before undertaking a walkabout to the Capitol for an arrival and greetings ceremony. The Queen will make a speech to the Virginia General Assembly.
Evening: Arrival in Williamsburg.
May 4, 2007: Williamsburg
Morning: The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh arrive at the Jamestown Settlement. The Queen tours the Fort while The Duke of Edinburgh tours the ship Lady Susan.
Her Majesty and His Royal Highness arrive at the Jamestown archeological site at Historic Jamestowne. The Queen visits the museum while The Duke of Edinburgh visits the conservation facility.
The Royal couple will view part of the original well before a tour of the dig and site. They will present a gift to the people of Virginia.
The Queen will attend a luncheon at the Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg.
The Duke of Edinburgh will attend a reception onboard the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk.
The Governor’s Office has launched a new Web site, www.governor.virginia.gov/Queen to keep people informed and updated on The Queen’s visit to Virginia. Information will also be available through a toll-free telephone number at the Virginia Tourism Corporation: 877-876-8282. The Queen’s entire U.S. itinerary is available at http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page5531.asp.
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