KING CHARLES MEETS CANADIAN PM MARK CARNEY DURING OTTAWA VISIT – Charles is set to open parliament in Ottawa today
King Charles met Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Canadian Governor General Mary Simon at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.
The royal couple landed in Canada’s capital on Monday for a highly symbolic visit showing support for the nation that recognises him as its sovereign, but is desired by U.S. President Donald Trump as a 51st U.S. state.
Following an invitation from Carney, Charles will open parliament on Tuesday, the first time a British monarch has carried out the duty since his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, did so 68 years ago.
Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire to annex Canada, a proposition fiercely rebuffed by Carney, whose election win last month came partly on the back of that stance.
Charles has made subtle signals of his backing for Canada in recent months, wearing Canadian medals, calling himself the king of Canada, and describing its flag as “a symbol that never fails to elicit a sense of pride and admiration.”
However, he faces a tricky balancing act as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working to keep Trump onside over Ukraine and trade ties.
Charles’ trip will be his first visit to the former British colony since becoming king in September 2022.
