King Charles to open Canadian Parliament as Trump’s ‘51st state’ remarks stir controversy

OTTAWA, May 27 — King Charles III arrived in Ottawa on Monday for a landmark visit to open Canada’s new session of parliament — a symbolic move amid rising tensions over US President Donald Trump’s annexation rhetoric.

The 76-year-old monarch, who serves as Canada’s head of state through its Commonwealth ties, was welcomed at the airport by Prime Minister Mark Carney. Carney invited Charles to deliver a speech at the parliamentary opening — a rare occurrence traditionally handled by the governor general, the King’s representative in Canada.

Only twice in history has the reigning British monarch delivered a throne speech in Canada — Queen Elizabeth II did so in 1957 and again in 1977.

This marks Charles’s first visit to Canada since his coronation. While he has remained silent on Trump’s repeated musings about turning Canada into the 51st US state, his words during this trip — particularly on sovereignty and trade — will be closely scrutinized.

Trump has disrupted US-Canada relations by imposing tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and autos. Though some levies were suspended during ongoing negotiations, the impact on Canada’s economy has been significant.

Queen Camilla is accompanying Charles on the whirlwind 24-hour trip.

Prime Minister Carney, whose newly elected government ran on a platform of reducing dependency on the US, said his administration aims to strengthen domestic trade and forge closer ties with overseas allies. Charles’s speech, he noted, will lay out the vision for this new direction.

“This is a historic moment that reflects the gravity of our era,” Carney stated.

A government release described the royal visit as “a momentous and historic occasion that reinforces Canada’s sovereignty and identity as a constitutional monarchy.”

Trump, during Carney’s recent Oval Office visit, reiterated his annexation idea, calling it a “wonderful marriage.” Carney pushed back firmly, saying, “Canada is never for sale.”

US Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra dismissed the visit as a meaningful signal, saying last week on CBC, “If there’s a message to send, just pick up the phone. Carney can call the president anytime.” He added that in his view, the annexation issue is “over.”

Still, the visit is drawing global attention. The royal couple will be greeted in Ottawa by Governor General Mary Simon, Indigenous leaders, and other dignitaries, and will meet with community organizations.

Charles will also meet privately with Carney before receiving full military honors at the Senate on Tuesday and delivering the throne speech.

Royal analyst Edward Wang, traveling from Vancouver to attend, said, “At a time when our sovereignty is under question, having the King open parliament sends a strong message. The world is watching.”

Even some Canadians who typically oppose the monarchy are embracing the symbolism of the moment. “Right now, we’re all monarchists,” said 32-year-old George Monastiriakos, walking his dog in downtown Ottawa. “Trump admires gold and the monarchy — he’ll definitely be paying attention.”

Sipping coffee at ByWard Market, 46-year-old Gaelle Hortop added, “I’m hopeful this will lift Canadian spirits.” — AFP