King Charles visits Canada for first time as monarch, reinforcing sovereignty amid Trump’s push to make it the 51st U.S. state.

Royal Visit Underscores Sovereignty

King Charles III arrived in Canada on Monday for a symbolic two-day visit aimed at affirming the nation’s independence and the monarchy’s connection to the country. This is the king’s first official trip to Canada since ascending to the throne in September 2022, and comes amid growing tensions over U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments about incorporating Canada as the 51st state.

Landing at Ottawa Airport alongside Queen Camilla, King Charles was received by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Governor General Mary Simon. He later held private meetings with both leaders. Despite undergoing cancer treatment, the 76-year-old monarch accepted Carney’s invitation to open Parliament on Tuesday, marking the first time a reigning British monarch has performed the duty since Queen Elizabeth II 68 years ago.

Charles’ visit signals a reaffirmation of Canada’s sovereignty, particularly in light of Trump’s repeated remarks about annexing the country. Those comments, widely rejected by Canadians, played a significant role in Carney’s recent re-election victory. Carney publicly rebuked the idea earlier this month during a meeting at the White House, telling Trump that “Canada is not for sale, and won’t be for sale, ever.”

Monarchy’s Role in Reinforcing Canadian Identity

Canadian envoy to the United Kingdom Ralph Goodale echoed Carney’s message last week during Charles’ visit to Canada’s High Commission in London. “The prime minister has made it clear that Canada is not for sale now, is not for sale ever,” Goodale said. “The king, as head of state, will reinforce the power and the strength of that message.”

Charles has subtly supported Canada’s national identity in recent months by referring to himself as the King of Canada, wearing Canadian honors, and calling the country's flag “a symbol that never fails to elicit a sense of pride and admiration.” His presence in Canada is seen as both a symbolic and diplomatic counterbalance to U.S. pressure.

The royal visit comes at a delicate diplomatic moment. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is seeking cooperation with the Trump administration on key issues, including trade and the war in Ukraine. In February, Starmer visited the White House and delivered Trump a personal invitation from King Charles for a second state visit—an unprecedented move that reportedly upset many in Canada.

Charles must now navigate his dual role as a constitutional monarch for multiple nations. While maintaining diplomatic openness toward the U.S., his current visit sends a clear message of solidarity with Canada’s political autonomy and democratic values.

As the monarch of 15 countries, including Canada, Charles' actions are closely watched for how they reflect the will of those nations. His decision to visit during this politically sensitive time signals an active commitment to reinforcing the bonds between the crown and the Canadian people.