The King and Queen stopped by Canada House before starting their two-day visit. Getty Images
King Charles III will visit Canada on May 26 and 27. He will deliver the speech from the throne in Ottawa. This event will start Canada’s new parliamentary session. It is a major visit, happening during rising tension between Canada and the United States.
US President Donald Trump recently suggested making Canada the 51st US state. He also raised tariffs on Canadian products. These moves have caused friction between the two nations.
Historic Role for King Charles
The King accepted an invite from Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney. The 76-year-old monarch is currently being treated for cancer. Still, he agreed to take part in this short but important trip.
“This is an historic honour,” said Carney. “The King will outline our plan to build Canada strong.”
Normally, Canada’s governor general gives the throne speech. The last time a monarch read it in person was in 1977, when Queen Elizabeth II visited. This speech is expected to focus on trade and Canada's independence.
Packed Two-Day Schedule
The royal couple will arrive in Ottawa on May 26. Their visit will begin with a cultural event in Lansdowne Park. It will feature music, crafts, and a celebration of Canada’s diverse people.
King Charles will then meet with Prime Minister Carney and Governor General Mary Simon. Later, he will plant a tree at Rideau Hall. A small reception with local leaders will follow.
Throne Speech and Royal Procession
On May 27, King Charles and Queen Camilla will ride in a royal carriage to the Senate. The parade will feature 28 horses and full military honours. The speech is set to begin at 3:00 p.m. GMT.
After the speech, the royal couple will visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. There, they will lay a wreath to honour fallen soldiers. This act will mark the end of their visit.
First Visit as Monarch
This will be King Charles’s first trip to Canada since he became king in 2022. It will also be his 20th visit to the country overall. Queen Camilla has visited Canada five times before, but this will be her first visit as queen.
Because of the King’s ongoing cancer treatment, a Canadian doctor will join him on the trip. Palace officials said the couple are “looking forward to the programme.” They added it may be short, but they hope it makes a lasting impact.
Tension with the United States
The visit comes as Canada’s ties with the US remain tense. Prime Minister Carney recently met President Trump in Washington. After Trump spoke of a “wonderful marriage” between the countries, Carney firmly replied: “Canada is not for sale. It won’t be for sale, ever.”
Carney became prime minister in March and won the election in April. He ran on promises to defend Canada’s freedom and independence.
