King Charles visits Canada amid debate
King Charles III and Queen Camilla began their two-day state visit to Ottawa, Canada, marking the King's first official trip to Canada since ascending the throne. The visit aims to reinforce the constitutional monarchy and address contemporary political dynamics, particularly amid discussions about Canada's sovereignty in light of U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial remarks about annexation.
Upon arrival, the royal couple was greeted by Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Mark Carney, Indigenous leaders, and an honor guard from the Royal Canadian Dragoons. They visited Lansdowne Park, where they engaged with the public, met local vendors, and participated in a ceremonial puck drop at a youth hockey game. Later, at Rideau Hall, the official residence of the monarch in Canada, King Charles planted a commemorative tree and met with representatives from the King's Trust Canada.
The highlight of the visit occurred, when King Charles delivered the Speech from the Throne to open the 45th Parliament of Canada. This marked only the third time a reigning monarch has performed this duty in Canadian history, following Queen Elizabeth II's addresses in 1957 and 1977. The speech outlined Prime Minister Carney's legislative agenda, focusing on climate action, Indigenous reconciliation, and economic resilience.
The visit is particularly significant as it comes amid heightened discussions about Canada's national identity and sovereignty. Prime Minister Carney emphasized the importance of the constitutional monarchy in affirming Canada's distinct identity, while Indigenous leaders urged the Crown to honor historical treaty obligations and take concrete actions beyond symbolic gestures. The royal visit concluded with a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial before King Charles and Queen Camilla returned to the United Kingdom.
