King Charles III Stirs Standing Ovation in Ottawa With Historic Speech on Canada’s Sovereignty

King Charles III defends Canadian sovereignty in historic Ottawa speech, amid rising U.S. pressure and global economic change.

King Charles III opened Canada’s new parliament session with a speech defending sovereignty amid U.S. pressure and economic transformation.

 

Ottawa, Canada | King Charles III delivered a historic Speech from the Throne to open Canada’s 45th Parliament on May 27, 2025, becoming the first British monarch to do so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1977. The speech drew a standing ovation from lawmakers and resonated strongly across political lines, addressing Canada’s sovereignty, economic future, and international relations at a time of significant global tension.

 

Flanked by Queen Camilla and newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney, the 76-year-old monarch acknowledged the uncertainty gripping the world, declaring this moment an "incredible opportunity" for Canada. “Many Canadians are feeling anxious and worried about the drastically changing world around them,” Charles said. “Yet, this moment is also an opportunity for renewal... to embark on the largest transformation of its economy since the Second World War.”

 

The speech came amid tensions between Canada and the United States, fueled by recent tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump and his controversial remarks suggesting Canada should become the “51st state.” Without naming Trump directly, the king underscored Canada’s independence, stating, “All Canadians give themselves far more than any foreign power or any continent can ever take away.”

 

Prime Minister Carney emphasized the symbolism of the king’s presence, calling it “a historic honor that matches the weight of our times.” He reiterated that inviting Charles to deliver the speech reinforced Canada’s sovereignty.

 

Charles' message included a call for unity and resilience, particularly in light of Canada’s welcoming stance toward immigrants and refugees from conflict zones. “A confident Canada can seize this opportunity,” he said, urging lawmakers to think big and act boldly.

 

Delivered in both French and English, the king’s address emphasized democratic values, rule of law, and pluralism, describing MPs as “guardians of the fundamental rights and freedoms.”

 

He also outlined Canada’s role in shaping a new global economic order. “The system of global trade is changing,” he said, noting the upcoming G7 Summit in Canada as a pivotal moment. Charles voiced support for open trade and international cooperation while contrasting it with Trump's protectionist measures.

 

On security, the king announced forthcoming legislation to strengthen Canada’s borders and combat fentanyl trafficking—an issue of growing concern for both Canada and the U.S.

 

The royal visit concluded with Charles inspecting the honor guard and expressing his deep personal connection to the country. “Every time I come to Canada, a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream,” he said, ending his 20th visit—but first as king—on a heartfelt note.

 

This speech is likely to have lasting implications for Canada’s domestic confidence and its diplomatic stance with the United States, as tensions with the Trump administration continue to escalate.