King Charles III has arrived in Canada for a crucial visit that will see him deliver a significant speech to the nation's parliament. This speech, which will take place later today, is anticipated to support Canada's stance in its ongoing dispute with US President Donald Trump. The royal couple received a warm welcome upon their arrival in Ottawa, marking their first visit since taking the throne.
Shortly after landing, King Charles met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who recently won election amid rising anti-Trump sentiment in Canada. Carney has celebrated Canada's unique identity and its "vitality of our constitutional monarchy," noting that challenges only strengthen it. The Prime Minister invited the King to address parliament following his electoral victory, aiming to emphasize the message of Canadian independence as sovereignty issues escalate with the US.
This occasion marks the first "Speech from the Throne" delivered by a monarch in almost 50 years—a significant symbolic gesture of support for Canada. Expectations are high that the address will broadcast a diplomatic but firm message: Canada is "not for sale" to the US. Carney emphasized that the forthcoming speech, to be presented in both English and French, would resonate with the current climate.
During the initial phase of his visit, King Charles participated in a tree-planting ceremony and engaged with local community members, receiving cheers and support from Canadians present. Attendees expressed the importance of the King's presence during this tumultuous time, with sentiments shared that "Canada feels threatened and scared" and that the King's visit carries significant meaning.
At Ottawa airport, Carney greeted the royal visitors with a welcoming party that included schoolchildren and representatives from indigenous communities. Throughout this whirlwind visit, light-hearted events, such as the King kicking off a street hockey game and receiving jars of maple syrup, provided a glimpse into the Canadian experience.
However, the main focus remains on the upcoming historic speech, where King Charles will be expected to clarify the Canadian government's rejection of becoming the potential "51st state" of the US. Balancing his role as a UK head of state while promoting Canada's sovereignty will be a delicate task for King Charles as he voices the sentiments of Canadians during this pivotal moment.
