King Charles III says he has always 'had admiration for Canada's unique identity'

King Charles III of the United Kingdom delivered the throne speech to the Canadian Parliament on Tuesday, officially opening the legislature. The event was the highlight of his visit to Canada, where he serves as head of state.

This is a historic moment, as the last time such a speech was delivered in Canada was in 1977 by Queen Elizabeth II.

The monarch began his address by praising "Canada's unique identity" and highlighting its British, French and indigenous roots.

During his half-hour address to parliamentarians, the monarch highlighted Canada's proud independence: "Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination and freedom are values that Canadians hold dear and which the government is determined to protect," Charles III said, adding that the country faces a "critical moment."

Likewise, the monarch praised the Liberal Party’s agenda while reaffirming that Canada is well equipped to handle fundamental changes in its economic and security relationships with other countries.

"The true north is truly strong and free," the king said to applause in the Canadian Parliament, while thanking everyone for the warm welcome he has received.

Many of the issues addressed by Charles III echoed the campaign promises of Canada's new prime minister, Mark Carney.

The throne speech, drafted by the Prime Minister’s Office, is typically delivered by the governor general, the British Crown’s representative in Canada.

A diplomatic visit to highlight Canada's "sovereignty"

The monarch arrived in Ottawa on Monday for a visit to mark the reopening of the Canadian Parliament.

Charles III was welcomed on the tarmac of the capital’s airport by Mark Carney, who an hour earlier described the visit as “historic honor, at the height of the challenges” facing the country.

The Canadian prime minister aims to use this tour—the first since Charles III ascended the throne in 2023—to highlight the country’s sovereignty.

In a release issued ahead of the monarch's arrival, Carney stated: "The Royal visit is a reminder of the bond between Canada and the Crown, one forged over generations, shaped by shared histories and based on common values."

The monarch’s visit is widely viewed as a show of support from the British Crown amid Trump’s comments about wanting to make Canada the 51st state of the U.S.