Courtesy CPAC
King Charles is delivering Canada’s Speech from the Throne today in Ottawa—marking the first time a reigning king has done so and the first time any monarch has read the speech in nearly 50 years.
The address, delivered in the Senate chamber, officially opens the 45th session of Parliament and outlines the federal government’s agenda for the new legislative term.
The throne speech is usually read by the governor general, but Prime Minister Mark Carney extended a formal invitation for the King to read it himself—calling it a symbol of Canada’s sovereignty in a time of international uncertainty.
The King arrived in Ottawa on Monday, accompanied by Queen Camilla. They were greeted by Governor General Mary Simon, Prime Minister Carney and his wife, as well as Indigenous leaders.
The royal couple began their visit at Lansdowne Park, met with community groups, and participated in a ceremonial tree planting at Rideau Hall.
This is King Charles’s 20th visit to Canada, though his first as monarch.
His presence comes amid a backdrop of strained relations with the United States under President Donald Trump, whose recent tariffs and remarks have stirred debate over Canada’s independence on the world stage.
As head of state of Canada and 13 other Commonwealth realms, King Charles has made several symbolic gestures of support for Canada in recent months, including wearing Canadian medals on official duties and choosing Canadian symbols during royal events in the UK.
