King Charles Delivers Historic Speech in Canada Amid US Tensions

King Charles III is set to deliver a pivotal address in the Canadian parliament, marking the first time a monarch has given the “Speech from the throne” in almost 50 years. The speech is expected to offer support to Canada in its dispute with US President Donald Trump, particularly regarding threats to Canada’s sovereignty. Prime Minister Mark Carney, recently elected on an anti-Trump platform, has invited the King to deliver the speech, which will be written on the advice of the Canadian government.

Upon arrival in Ottawa, the King and Queen Camilla received a warm welcome, with Carney greeting them on the runway alongside schoolchildren from English- and French-speaking schools and representatives of First Nations communities. The King held a meeting with Carney at Rideau Hall, the residence of Canada’s governor-general, and also met with leaders of Canada’s indigenous and First Nations groups. Carney praised the “historic ties” that make up Canada’s independent identity, including the “vitality of our constitutional monarchy”, which he said “crises only fortify”.

The King’s speech is anticipated to resonate with Canadians feeling threatened by US policies, particularly Trump’s suggestion that Canada become the 51st US state. Theresa McKnight, from Mississauga, Ontario, expressed the importance of the King’s visit, stating, “Canada feels threatened and scared. It is very important he is here.” Her sister Dianne St Louis agreed, saying, “It’s critical. It means a great deal to have the King standing side by side with Canadians.”

The King’s visit is seen as a symbolic show of support for Canada, and his speech is expected to send a clear message that the country is “not for sale” to the US. Carney noted that the speech, to be delivered in French and English, would match “the weight of our times”. As another bystander said at Rideau Hall, “Sovereignty is important and he is the epitome of that”.

The visit marks a significant moment in Canadian history, with the King set to open the 45th Canadian Parliament, a role last performed by Queen Elizabeth II in 1977. The King’s decision to come to parliament in Ottawa is seen as a diplomatic balancing act, given his role as head of state of the UK and the need to maintain good relations with Trump. However, in Canada, the King will speak on behalf of the Canadian government, reaffirming the country’s sovereignty and independence.