King Charles, 76, made a landmark address to the Canadian Parliament on May 27, marking his first official visit to Canada since ascending the throne in September 2022. The King spoke from the throne during the State Opening of Parliament in Ottawa, a rare occasion as the speech is typically delivered by the Governor General on behalf of the monarch.
Accompanied by Queen Camilla, 77, the royal couple’s visit to Canada lasted less than 24 hours but was packed with significant moments. They arrived in grand style, traveling in a landau carriage escorted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride. Upon arrival, King Charles received a royal salute and a 100-person guard of honor, highlighting the importance of the occasion.
Despite undergoing weekly cancer treatments, the King delivered a powerful speech in both English and French. He carefully addressed the complexities of Canada’s diplomatic relationship with the United States, following the recent election of Prime Minister Carney, seen as a rejection of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies and remarks about Canada.
In his address, King Charles referenced the Canadian national anthem: “As the anthem reminds us: The True North is indeed strong and free!” He praised the evolving economic and security partnership between Canada and the U.S., emphasizing mutual respect and shared interests. Charles highlighted Canada’s efforts to build alliances with like-minded countries, promoting international cooperation and free trade.
This speech was only the second time a reigning monarch has addressed the Canadian Parliament in person—the first being Queen Elizabeth II, Charles’s late mother, in 1957. Reflecting on historical challenges from World War II to the Cold War, Charles acknowledged the current global uncertainties but framed them as opportunities for Canada to lead transformative change.
Royal historian Dr. Ed Owen praised the speech as “pitch perfect,” noting its diplomatic tone, particularly concerning Canada-U.S. relations and border security issues like fentanyl trafficking. Owen highlighted King Charles’s role in reaffirming Canadian sovereignty and uniting the country, especially through recognizing the importance of reconciliation and acknowledging historical injustices.
Following the parliamentary ceremony, King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the National War Memorial, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a solemn tribute to Canada’s fallen heroes.
Earlier in the day, the royal couple received a warm welcome from Ottawa residents at Lansdowne Park, who expressed their gratitude and affection for the King and Queen. They also met representatives of Canadian organizations and held private meetings with Governor General Mary Simon and Prime Minister Carney. Queen Camilla was sworn into the Canadian Privy Council, marking another historic milestone.
The visit concluded with a ceremonial tree planting at Rideau Hall and a reception honoring Canada’s provincial and territorial leaders, capping off a meaningful and symbolic day for the British monarchy and its relationship with Canada.
As King Charles was in Canada, his estranged son, Prince Harry, made a surprise appearance at a global tourism conference in Shanghai, China, reflecting the ongoing complex dynamics within the royal family.
This historic visit reaffirms King Charles’s commitment to his role as Canada’s head of state, highlighting the evolving role of the monarchy in modern international relations and Canadian unity.
