The King of Canada has carried out another significant “first” of his reign with his reading of the Throne Speech in Ottawa. In the speech, King Charles highlighted the special and lasting relationship he has with Canada.

While the government provides the majority of the text of the Throne Speech, the Monarch typically adds their own words to open it. King Charles took the opportunity to draw attention to his love for and connection with Canada and its peoples, saying ”“This is my 20th visit to Canada, spread over the course of more than half a century, and my first as Sovereign. As I have said before, ‘Every time I come to Canada a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream – and from there straight to my heart’.”

The King also warmly addressed Canada’s Indigenous peoples in his opening, and thanked them for their continuing welcoming over his twenty visits to the country.

His Majesty said “To the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples – you have welcomed my family and myself to your traditional lands with great warmth and hospitality, for which I am humbly grateful.”

Filled with many elements and traditions that are unique to Canada, the ceremony highlighted King Charles and Queen Camilla’s diplomatic support for Canada. Given that Canada has faced continual comments and questions from the American government on Canada becoming a part of the United States, this has undoubtedly sent a message to both Canadians and those beyond.