King Charles has said Canada is facing unprecedented challenges in a world that’s never been more dangerous as he opened the Canadian parliament overnight with a speech widely viewed as a show of support for the country in the face of annexation threats by US President Donald Trump.
“We must face reality: since the Second World War, our world has never been more dangerous and unstable. Canada is facing challenges that, in our lifetimes, are unprecedented,” Charles said in French, one of the country’s official languages.
Charles, Canada’s head of state, is the first British monarch in almost 70 years to preside over the opening of the its parliament.
King Charles inspects an honour guard as he arrives at the Senate building in Ottawa.Credit: AP
Charles referred to “the country that Canadians and I love so much” but did not mention Trump, who has imposed tariffs on Canadian imports and muses about turning Canada into the 51st US state.
“The True North is indeed strong and free,” Charles said, referring to the nation’s anthem.
The speech outlining the government’s plans was largely written by officials working for Prime Minister Mark Carney. But Charles was responsible for the comments about Canada.
“Every time I come to Canada … a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream – and from there straight to my heart,” said the monarch, accompanied by his wife Queen Camilla.
“Canada has continued to set an example to the world in her conduct and values, as a force for good.”
The 76-year-old king, who is undergoing cancer treatment, left after a visit that barely lasted 24 hours.
Reuters, AP
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