• King Charles III delivered a historic 'Speech from the Throne' to Canada's Parliament.
• The speech stressed Canada's sovereignty amid U.S. President Trump's annexation threats.
• Charles highlighted key Canadian values: democracy, pluralism, and self-determination.
• The event marked only the third occasion a monarch has delivered the speech in Canada.
• Prime Minister Mark Carney invited Charles to strengthen ties amid U.S. tensions.

King Charles III opened Canada’s Parliament on May 27, 2025, delivering a historic 'Speech from the Throne' that emphasized the country's sovereignty, particularly in the context of U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated threats to annex Canada as the “51st state.” The monarch stated, “The True North is indeed strong and free,” resonating with attendees amid ongoing economic tensions caused by Trump's tariffs and political comments, according to South China Morning Post and ABC News.

During his address, which was historically significant as it was the first royal speech to Parliament since 1977, Charles highlighted values central to Canadian identity: “Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination, and freedom.” He stressed the importance of protecting these ideals, reflecting the Canadian government's ongoing commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty amid external pressures, according to HuffPost and BBC.

Prime Minister Mark Carney, who invited Charles to speak, indicated that the king's visit serves as a powerful symbol of Canada's enduring ties to its constitutional monarchy while also acting as a statement against Trump's remarks regarding annexation. Carney has positioned his government to redefine Canada’s economic relationship with the U.S. in light of the ongoing trade disputes, asserting that “Canada is ready to build a coalition of like-minded countries,” as stated in the monarch's speech, according to HuffPost, The New York Times, and Le Monde.

The event was complemented by a warm reception from Canadian lawmakers, who erupted into applause upon the conclusion of the speech, signaling strong support for the monarch's message amidst geopolitical uncertainties. It garnered attention not only for its symbolic weight but also for its animal inclusion of Indigenous leaders in attendance alongside parliamentarians, reflecting Canada's rich diversity and cultural heritage, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.

While Trump's name was notably absent from the speech, the underlying message was clear: Canada must assert its sovereignty while embracing both traditional values and a modern outlook towards international relations. Charles' remarks about adapting to a “more dangerous and uncertain” global landscape have resonated well with Canadians who see their distinct identity under threat, supporting a unified national sentiment against external intimidation, according to CTV News and Al Jazeera.