King Charles visits Canada to reinforce sovereignty amid US ambitions

King Charles is set to arrive in Canada on Monday for a visit rich in symbolism, underlining his support for a country where he serves as monarch one that former U.S. President Donald Trump has provocatively suggested could become America’s 51st state.

Responding to an invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, King Charles will preside over the opening of Parliament in Ottawa on Tuesday. This marks the first time in 68 years that a British monarch has carried out this ceremonial duty, last performed by Queen Elizabeth II. Despite undergoing cancer treatment, the 76-year-old king's participation underscores his dedication to Canada, one of the 15 realms where he remains head of state.

Trump’s ongoing comments about annexing Canada have stirred strong political resistance. Carney, whose recent electoral victory was partly attributed to his firm rejection of such ideas, has made Canada’s sovereignty a central issue. "Canada is not for sale now or ever," stressed Ralph Goodale, Canada’s high commissioner to the UK, during Charles’ recent visit to the Canadian diplomatic mission in London.

Goodale emphasized that King Charles' role as head of state lends authority to this message. In recent months, Charles has shown subtle but deliberate support for Canada wearing Canadian honors, referring to himself as Canada’s king, and praising the nation’s flag as a source of national pride.

However, the king must navigate a delicate political landscape. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is trying to maintain a working relationship with Trump, particularly concerning trade and the Ukraine conflict. During a February trip to the White House, Starmer highlighted an unprecedented second state visit offer from Charles to Trump, who has long admired the British monarchy due to his own maternal British roots.

Carney, who once led the Bank of England, noted that this outreach to Trump had sparked discontent among Canadians.

King Charles and Queen Camilla’s visit will be their first to Canada since his ascension in 2022. On Monday, they will tour a major park in Ottawa, interact with local artists and vendors, and participate in a street hockey event, which includes a ceremonial puck drop and tree planting.

Tuesday’s agenda will feature a rare “Speech from the Throne” at the Canadian Senate, a formal address that inaugurates a new parliamentary session. The royal couple will arrive in a ceremonial horse-drawn carriage, escorted by 28 horses. The 25-minute speech has been prepared by Carney’s administration.

Canadian Minister of Identity and Culture Steven Guilbeault described the occasion as a historic one, bringing Canadians together in recognition of their democratic values and shared heritage.