Britain's Prince William and his wife, Catherine, are in the Canadian capital for their first overseas tour as a married couple.

The royal couple arrived in Ottawa Thursday and attended a wreath-laying ceremony at a war memorial. Their presence sparked screams of delight from thousands of onlookers.

They later attended a welcoming ceremony at Rideau Hall, the official home of Governor General David Johnston, the representative of Britain's Queen Elizabeth in Canada.

Speaking in French, William told a crowd in front of Rideau Hall that before he and Catherine were married, they had a longing to come together to Canada.

Their nine-day tour of Canada includes planned stops in eight cities. They travel on to the United States for a two-day visit.

The couple's itinerary includes a range of events, including a cooking workshop, a search and rescue demonstration, and a parade.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has called the tour a testament to the close ties between Canada and the royal family. Canada is part of the Commonwealth, with Queen Elizabeth as its head.

The newlyweds, known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, were married in April.