King Charles III arrived in Canada’s capital on Monday for a high-profile visit that Canadian officials say reaffirms the country’s sovereignty and constitutional identity, amid provocative comments from U.S. President Donald Trump.
The monarch, accompanied by Queen Camilla, was welcomed in Ottawa by Prime Minister Mark Carney, Governor General Mary Simon, and an honor guard from the Royal Canadian Dragoons, a regiment for which Charles serves as colonel-in-chief. The visit precedes a rare address from the throne by the King in Canada’s Parliament, a gesture meant to underline Canada’s distinct political structure as a constitutional monarchy.
The visit comes at a politically sensitive moment following President Trump’s controversial remarks suggesting the United States should consider annexing its northern neighbor. In response, Carney extended the symbolic invitation to King Charles to deliver Tuesday’s throne speech, typically a ceremonial duty carried out by the Governor General.
“This visit speaks to the vitality of our constitutional monarchy and our distinct identity,” Carney said in a statement. Governor General Simon echoed the sentiment, calling the royal presence “profoundly significant” and a moment to reflect on Canada’s unique history and national pride.
Though Canada gained independence in 1867, it retained the British monarch as its head of state. King Charles serves in a nonpartisan role, and the throne speech he will deliver was written by Canada’s government to outline its legislative agenda.
Royal historian Carolyn Harris said Charles’ appearance underscores the Canadian Crown’s distinct character, noting that he will be surrounded by Canadian symbols, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. “This is very much King Charles III in his role as King of Canada,” Harris said.
Former Quebec Premier Jean Charest highlighted the historical context, pointing to Canada’s evolution from a British colony into a sovereign parliamentary democracy distinct from the U.S.
Still, U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra downplayed the symbolism, telling CBC that Canadians should move past “51st state” speculation and reach out through diplomatic channels if needed.
The king’s visit includes community engagements, a ceremonial first puck drop at a street hockey game, and a meeting with Prime Minister Carney. Queen Camilla will take part in a swearing-in as a member of the Canadian Privy Council, a formal advisory body to the monarch.
King Charles is expected to return to the U.K. after delivering the speech and visiting Canada’s National War Memorial.
