King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to arrive in Canada for a two-day visit aimed at expressing solidarity with the nation during its tensions with US President Donald Trump.
Invited by Prime Minister Mark Carney, who recently gained election support fueled by anti-Trump sentiments, the royal couple will engage in discussions during their Ottawa visit.
For the first time in nearly half a century, the King will deliver the “Speech from the Throne” to Canada’s Parliament, underlining Canada’s sovereignty and firmly rejecting any notion of US annexation.
The visit encompasses a ceremonial airport welcome and meetings with various community groups, including members from Canada’s First Nation communities, and a personal meeting with indigenous Governor General Mary Simon.
This trip marks the first royal visit since King Charles III’s ascension, following a postponed journey last year due to health concerns. His delivering of the Throne Speech echoes similar historical moments by his mother’s reign.
With heightened public sentiment following Trump’s controversial statements regarding Canadian sovereignty, Carney has already asserted Canada’s autonomy in discussions with Trump earlier this month. Former high commissioner Jeremy Kinsman expressed confidence that the King’s message will definitively celebrate Canadian independence.
The royal engagement will be less extravagant than UK ceremonies but carries a significant diplomatic weight as the King aims to balance his role between being a head of state for both Canada and the UK.
Source: www.bbc.com
