The new King Charles III arrives in Canada on May 26, 2025. His two-day visit was to help reassert the country’s independence following a series of inflammatory comments from U.S. President Donald Trump. It would be the very first time the new monarch would visit Canada since taking the throne in September 2022. Joined by Queen Camilla, the Royal Couple was greeted enthusiastically by throngs of well-wishers at Lansdowne Park in Ottawa.
During their visit, King Charles III and Queen Camilla engaged with local vendors and artists, emphasizing the significance of community and culture. The visit comes at a time when President Trump’s remarks about potentially making Canada the 51st U.S. state have stirred discussions in Canada. The royal engagement is viewed as a powerful symbolic gesture of sole support for Canada’s autonomy.
King Charles III opened a demonstration street hockey match with a ceremonial puck drop. This event showcased his deep and personal connection to Canadian traditions. He planted a tree at Rideau Hall, symbolizing growth and longevity in the relationship between Canada and the monarchy.
Canada’s Governor General Mary Simon remarked on the importance of the royal couple’s presence, stating that their visit holds “profound significance” for the nation. The announcement of invitation from Prime Minister Mark Carney conveyed the deep ties that connect the two countries and welcomed King Charles III’s invitation to visit Canada.
The king’s visit is intended as a sign of support and encouragement to Canada. Once again, this support will likely be very generic. Commentators point out that it will be very unlikely that King Charles III would mention any of Trump or his statements during the visit.
Justin Vovk specifically spoke to this expectation. He said, “If folks are thinking that the first thing they’ll hear is ‘Donald Trump’s name’ or ‘the 51st state’—they should be ready to be disappointed.”
King Charles III will be opening Parliament in Ottawa on Tuesday. As part of his formal role, he will open the new legislative session with a “Speech from the Throne.” Mark Carney indicated that the speech will outline the government’s ambitious plan for a new economic and security relationship with the United States.
“To that end, the Speech from the Throne will outline the government’s ambitious plan to act with urgency and determination, and to deliver the change Canadians want and deserve: to define a new economic and security relationship with the United States … to bring down the cost of living, and to keep communities safe.” – Mark Carney
Ralph Goodale highlighted the significance of King Charles III’s role during this visit by stating, “the king, as head of state, will reinforce the power” of Canadian sovereignty.
