King Charles said he and his wife are expressing their deepest sympathy for those affected by the wildfires in Western Canada.
He specifically mentioned those who had lost their homes and property and have had to relocate while noting the “strength and resilience of so many people to persevere and rebuild.”
“We are immensely saddened to see the significant damage that has occurred in Jasper—a truly magical place, whose rugged and romantic beauty has captivated Canadians and travellers from around the world,” King Charles said in a written statement distributed through Rideau Hall.
This is the largest wildfire for Jasper National Park in the past 100 years.
Around a third of the Jasper townsite has been destroyed, and 25,000 people have been evacuated, but no casualties or injuries have been reported.
The King offered his thanks to first responders, including firefighters, police, health-care professionals and community volunteers and leaders.
“The number of firefighters who have come from across the world to offer their services speaks not only to the sense of solidarity that exists within that professional community, but also the high regard in which Canada and Canadians are held around the world,” he added.
“Finally, we would like to commend all those Canadians who are taking the initiative to assist their neighbours and friends through this difficult period. From our experience that has always been the Canadian way.”
The Royal Family has long had a connection with Jasper National Park.
In 2005, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited Jasper where Prince Philip gave a reading from 2 Corinthians to a Sunday congregation in the St. Mary and St. George Anglican Church.
In 1939, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, stayed at the Jasper Park Lodge's Outlook Cabin.
