Overview

• Charles became the second monarch and only the third sovereign to personally open Canada’s Parliament, using the rare occasion to underscore national independence.
• The address, written by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, outlined plans to rebuild the armed forces, diversify trade partnerships and protect cultural institutions.
• Carney invited the king to Ottawa to strengthen unity and send a clear message rejecting US President Donald Trump’s 51st state rhetoric.
• US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra argued that direct diplomatic channels could achieve what symbolic gestures intend, downplaying the need for royal intervention.
• During their 24-hour visit, Charles and Queen Camilla joined public events, toured Ottawa landmarks and laid a wreath at the National War Memorial.