King Charles is scheduled to arrive in Canada on Monday for a significant two-day visit aimed at reaffirming his support for the country, where he serves as head of state.
The trip comes at a sensitive time, as U.S. President Donald Trump’s public remarks about annexing Canada as the 51st state have sparked diplomatic tensions. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has strongly opposed the idea, making national sovereignty a central theme of his recent election campaign.
On Tuesday, King Charles will become the first British monarch in nearly 70 years to formally open Canada’s Parliament—a ceremonial role last performed by his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1957. Despite currently undergoing cancer treatment, the 76-year-old monarch’s visit underscores his commitment to Canada, one of 15 nations that recognize him as sovereign.
The visit was initiated by Prime Minister Carney, who has positioned himself as a firm opponent of Trump’s annexation rhetoric. “The prime minister has made it clear that Canada is not for sale now, is not for sale ever,” Canada’s High Commissioner to the UK, Ralph Goodale, said during Charles’ recent visit to Canada House in London. “The king, as head of state, will reinforce the power and the strength of that message.”
In recent months, King Charles has demonstrated quiet gestures of solidarity with Canada, including referring to himself as the “King of Canada,” wearing Canadian honors, and praising the national flag.
However, the visit is diplomatically delicate. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working to maintain constructive ties with Trump, particularly on issues related to Ukraine and trade. During a February visit to the White House, Starmer highlighted a rare invitation from King Charles for a second state visit by Trump—a move that has caused unease among some Canadians.
Accompanied by Queen Camilla, this will be King Charles’ first trip to Canada since ascending the throne in September 2022. Monday’s agenda includes a tour of a major park in Ottawa, meetings with local artists and vendors, a ceremonial puck drop at a street hockey event, and a tree-planting ceremony.
On Tuesday, the king will deliver a “Speech from the Throne” in the Canadian Senate, marking only the third time a reigning monarch has opened a session of Canada’s Parliament.
Nzubechukwu Eze
