The King addressed the Canadian Parliament during his 20th visit to the country.
The decision to have King Charles speak was a “masterstroke” (Image: Getty)
Standing before hundreds of Canadian parliamentarians and guests from a throne carved from a walnut tree grown in Windsor Great Park and decorated with sprays of maple leaves, the King reaffirmed the country’s sovereignty. All ears were on the historic 30-minute address, which marked just the second time a monarch had made the 3,300 mile trip to open the new parliamentary session.
While the King did not write the bulk of the speech, instead reading what the Canadian Government had written as is customary at such an event, he wrote the introductory and concluding remarks where he focused on the warm relationship between the two nations.
Nods and quiet murmerings greeted the King as he spoke of Canada’s “critical moment”, and the packed room continued to display quiet approval as they watched intently as he seamlessly transitioned between speaking in English and French.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Royal news Join us on WhatsApp
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
The King spoke at the Canadian Parliament (Image: Getty)
The conclusion of his speech was met with a hearty round of applause.
The repeated references to Canada’s sovereignty, freedom and independence sends a very clear message to Donald Trump, one that Mark Carney has been vocal about since taking office: Canada is not for sale.
It was a masterstroke of the newly elected Canadian Prime Minister to invite the King to deliver the speech today, as it has been widely interpreted as a show of the monarch’s support for the Commonwealth nation.
Sources spoke of the King walking a “diplomatic tightrope” during his brief visit – which saw him on Canadian soil for less than 24 hours – and were keen to stress that the royal visit was about tradition, not a political statement.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
The King delivered the speech (Image: Getty)
But it is no secret that the monarch carries the deepest affections for Canada, having spent months using symbolic gestures to signal his support for the country.
He’s worn red ties, worn Canadian medals, praised the “proud, resilient and compassionate country” and a maple tree was chosen for a tree planting ceremony in Buckingham Palace.
These subtle messages served to emphasise the King’s commitment to Canada, and his speech today will no doubt be celebrated by Canadians for the important subtext within it.
The Palace spoke of the King’s desire for the whirlwind trip to be “impactful”, and there’s no doubt that that objective has been achieved.
