OTTAWA — King Charles III has issued a stark warning about the threats facing Canada, saying the country is navigating “unprecedented challenges” in an increasingly dangerous world.
Delivering Canada’s Speech from the Throne on Tuesday—the first time a reigning British monarch has done so in nearly 50 years—Charles spoke in French as he addressed lawmakers in Ottawa at the request of newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney, according to the New York Post
“Since the Second World War, our world has never been more dangerous and unstable,” the monarch said. “Canada is facing challenges that, in our lifetimes, are unprecedented. Many Canadians are feeling anxious and worried about the drastically changing world around them.”
Though he did not mention Donald Trump by name, the King’s visit and his remarks appeared to respond to recent comments by the former U.S. president suggesting Canada could become America’s “51st state.”
‘A Sovereign Canada’
The visit, described by Prime Minister Carney as a moment to underscore “the sovereignty of Canada,” included a full ceremonial welcome for King Charles and Queen Camilla, featuring a 21-gun salute and an RCMP honour guard.
Charles’ speech highlighted the importance of Canadian identity and values amid global instability.
“Canadians can give themselves far more than any foreign power on any continent can ever take away,” he said. “By staying true to Canadian values, Canada can build new alliances and a new economy that serves all Canadians.”
He also acknowledged growing economic and security ties between Canada and the United States, noting they are “rooted in mutual respect and founded on common interests.”
Historic Moment
This marks King Charles’ 20th visit to Canada, but the first time he has delivered the official Speech from the Throne, a task last undertaken by Queen Elizabeth II in 1977.
Sitting on a golden throne inside Parliament, Charles opened the session of the new government led by Prime Minister Carney. Beside him, Camilla, now a member of the King’s Privy Council, wore a matching blue outfit and hat. The role formally involves advising His Majesty on Canadian affairs.
Mixed Reaction
Reaction to the monarch’s address was sharply divided on social media. One user wrote, “This is emasculating for Mark Carney, worse than the Trump meeting,” while another called it “pathetic,” adding, “Nobody cares about the monarchy.”
Some critics questioned the relevance of the monarchy in modern Canada, even as supporters gathered outside Parliament, cheering, “God save the King!”
Adding a touch of levity to the proceedings, former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was seen at the event sporting an unusual choice of turquoise trainers with orange stripes beneath his formal suit.
Royal Duties Continue
The King and Queen arrived in Ottawa on Monday ahead of the official ceremonies. Charles’ speech set the stage for Carney’s legislative agenda, marking a significant moment for the new government and reaffirming the monarch’s symbolic role in Canada’s constitutional framework.
