

In a rare and symbolic address to Canada’s Parliament, King Charles III warned of the unprecedented challenges facing the nation and the world, delivering a message of resilience and sovereignty amid global uncertainty.
The speech, made at the request of newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney, marked the first time a reigning British monarch has addressed Canada’s Parliament in nearly 50 years.
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The King’s visit comes at a politically sensitive time, with former U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly suggesting Canada could become America’s “51st state.”
While Charles did not reference Trump directly, his remarks were widely interpreted as a subtle rejection of any implication that Canada’s independence is negotiable.
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“Since the Second World War, our world has never been more dangerous and unstable,” the King said, speaking partly in French.
“Canada is facing challenges that, in our lifetimes, are unprecedented. Many Canadians are feeling anxious and worried about the drastically changing world around them.”
A royal visit amid political tensions
The King and Queen Camilla arrived in Ottawa on Monday, greeted with full military honors, including a 21-gun salute and a ceremonial escort by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. On Tuesday, King Charles delivered Canada’s traditional Speech from the Throne, outlining the Carney government’s vision for the coming parliamentary session.
Seated on a golden throne in the Senate chamber, the King’s presence carried deep constitutional and symbolic weight. Prime Minister Carney, who sat beside him, described the moment as one that “underscores the sovereignty of Canada.”
Charles highlighted the strength of Canadian values and the importance of preserving national identity in the face of outside pressures.
“Canadians can give themselves far more than any foreign power on any continent can ever take away,” he said.
He also touched on evolving U.S.-Canada relations, calling for “a new economic and security relationship… rooted in mutual respect and founded on common interests.”
This visit marked King Charles‘ 20th trip to Canada, but his first delivering the throne speech-something his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, last did in 1977.
Online reactions were mixed. Critics mocked the optics, including the formal seating arrangement and ceremonial protocols. Some also targeted Carney, suggesting his deference to the monarchy was a sign of political weakness.
Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also drew attention for arriving in a suit paired with turquoise sneakers featuring orange stripes, a wardrobe choice some called inappropriate for the occasion.
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla took on an official constitutional role, being sworn into the King’s Privy Council on Monday. The move formally positions her as an advisor to the King on Canadian matters.
Despite the criticism, the King’s address struck a tone of unity, urging Canadians to remain true to their values while adapting to global shifts. It was a powerful reminder of Canada’s distinct identity-and the monarchy’s ongoing, if evolving, role in preserving it.
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