On May 27, 2025, King Charles III gave the Speech from the Throne in Ottawa to open Canada’s 45th Parliament. The first such speech since Queen Elizabeth II’s in 1977, it occurs during a period of increased tensions between Canada and the United States, as a result of President Donald Trump’s inflammatory remarks referencing the annexation of Canada as the 51st U.S. state.
Guest of Prime Minister Mark Carney, King Charles’s speech highlighted Canada’s sovereignty and democratic principles. He asserted, “The True North is indeed strong and free,” as in the national anthem, to affirm Canada’s autonomy. The address provided the government’s agenda priorities, such as fortifying border security, spending on the military, and broadening trade partnerships to diminish overdependence on the U.S.
The visit by the King also brought into focus Canada’s support for multiculturalism and Indigenous reconciliation. The King recognized the importance of preserving French and Indigenous languages and cultures, and underscored the role of institutions such as CBC/Radio-Canada in keeping Canadian identity intact. Queen Camilla accompanied the King and was sworn into the Canadian Privy Council during the visit.
Despite ongoing health challenges, including cancer treatment, King Charles undertook this symbolic visit to affirm Canada’s autonomy and the enduring constitutional ties between Canada and the monarchy. The event served as a unifying moment, reinforcing Canada’s democratic institutions and its distinct identity on the global stage.
