“God Save The King”: Charles III received a hero’s welcome in Canada

At the invitation of Prime Minister Mark Carney, King Charles opened the 45th session of the Canadian Parliament and delivered the Speech from the Throne, becoming the first monarch to do so since his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1977.

This visit took place in a singular climate, marked by the tensions provoked by U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently expressed his wish to integrate Canada as the 51st state of the United States. But, above all, against a backdrop of genuine pride, palpable not only in Mark Carney, but also in many Canadians. Indeed, as he passed by, several heartfelt “God Save The King” chants could be heard among the crowds accompanying Charles III’s travels.

King Charles opened his speech with personal remarks, expressing his deep attachment to Canada and hailing Canada’s unique identity, recognized worldwide, underlining the national pride, unity and prospects that drive the country.

King Charles recalled that this was his 20th visit to Canada, saying that with each visit, a little more of the country entered his heart.

He also recognized the unceded territories of the First Nations, underlining the importance of respect and reconciliation, an explicit acknowledgement unprecedented in an official speech by the monarchy in Canada.

King Charles then recalled that Canada, like the rest of the world, was facing a new reality marked by profound upheaval.

Echoing the words of Premier Mark Carney, he emphasized that the country is undergoing a transformation unprecedented since the Second World War.inventing itself, nurturing great ambitions and taking bold action as a free nation, while forging new global alliances based on our distinctive values.