King Charles Opens Canadian Parliament, Reinforces Sovereignty Amid Trump Tensions

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to make a historic visit to Canada, where Charles will deliver the speech from the throne at the state opening of Parliament, marking the first time a British monarch has done so since 1977. This visit is widely seen as a symbolic show of support for Canada amid escalating tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened trade wars and even suggested Canada become the 51st state of the U.S. Newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who campaigned on a platform opposing Trump’s aggressive rhetoric, views the King's visit as a strong message affirming Canadian sovereignty and independence. Canadian officials, including High Commissioner Ralph Goodale, emphasized that King Charles will reinforce the message that Canada "is not for sale" and will remain "the true north, strong and free." The visit also highlights King Charles's personal commitment to the Commonwealth, following in his mother Queen Elizabeth II's footsteps, and underscores the delicate diplomatic balance between supporting Canada's sovereignty and maintaining relations with the U.S. government.