Charles III and Queen Camilla are the first official visits to Canada since Charles became British monarch in 2022.
The two-day trip, although short, carries symbolic weight at a time when Canada faces tariffs and threats from US President Donald Trump.
This is what you need to know about the visit.
What do you know about “Speech from the Throne”?
A major highlight of Charles’ visit is his scheduled address from the Canadian Senate on Tuesday.
This speech, often referred to as a “speech from the throne,” is traditionally used to hold new sessions of parliament and is usually given by the governor on behalf of the monarch.
The speech is ritual and not tied to a new legislative meeting. It is expected to include reflections on Canada’s democratic institutions, a message of unity and a focus on reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Although symbolic, this speech is a rare opportunity for Canadians to hear directly from the monarch in a parliamentary setting. It also serves as a public reaffirmation of the king’s role as Canadian head of state.
It is the first such speech since 1977 to be delivered by the British monarch of Canada.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in a statement Monday that he will outline the government’s plan for Canadians to make changes that they “want and deserve.”
This includes defining “a new economic and security relationship with the United States… to reduce costs of living and keep our communities safe.”
What time is your speech?
Charles will give a speech shortly after 11am local time (15:00 GMT).
How many are the kings and queens of Canada?
The royal couple competed on a two-day tour to Canada, which began on Monday.
They came with Kearney’s invitation. The visit is short, but includes some important engagements that reflect the historical relationship with the Canadian monarchy.
According to the official Canadian government website, the itinerary features official ceremonies, cultural events and meetings with Indigenous leaders.
Why is the king visiting?
Charles’ visit to Canada serves multiple purposes, both iconic and practical. It primarily aims to strengthen the lasting relationship between Canada and the Crown, highlighting shared values and historical connections.
The timing of the visit is particularly noteworthy as tensions have risen following President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks suggesting a sweeping tariff and Canada annexation.
Kearney’s invitation to provide “speech from speech” to Charles is seen as an attempt to reaffirm Canada’s sovereignty and constitutional framework.
Barbara Metsmore, a history professor at Fraser Valley University, said she found comments about Canadians turning Trump from state 51 into “deeply offensive.”
“I think it’s a good moment to show the world that we are a clear country with a clear history, and we want to keep it that way,” Metsmore told Al Jazeera. “Of course, I value my relationships with my American friends and neighbors, but I don’t want to participate.”
Is Monarch visits rare?
Members of the British royal family have toured Canada frequently over the years, but visits by monarchs are relatively rare. Queen Elizabeth II, for example, visited Canada 22 times during her seven-year reign.
This was the first time Charles visited the country as a monarch. He last visited in 2022 when he was still Prince of Wales.
What is the relationship between Canada and the monarchy?
Canada is a constitutional monarchy. In other words, the country recognizes the king as the head of state.
Although this role is primarily ritual, the crown plays an important function in the Canadian political system. The king’s duties are carried out in Canada by Governor Mary Simon, who represents the federal monarch in Canada.
Monarchy is embedded in the constitutional framework of Canada. The Constitutional Act of 1867, together with the House and Senate, established a king or queen as part of the Canadian Parliament.
Beyond politics, the crown is of particular importance in indigenous relations. Many historic treaties were made directly with the British crown, not the Canadian government.
This has been highlighted primarily in local media coverage, Messomore said.
“Indigenous people are front and center, and they value their kinship,” she said.
Support for monarchy varies from Canada to Canada, but many Canadians doubt its association and their institutions remain embedded in the country’s political and legal foundations.
This is because it has always provided a “breakwater against American ambitions,” Metsmore said.
“These moments are truly important moments about Canadian patriotism. The reaction to the king’s visit was very positive,” she said.
“We don’t always agree with all forms of governance, but it has made it very difficult to change fundamental aspects of the Canadian Constitution.”
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