'Strong and free': King Charles opens Parliament with veiled message to Trump

King Charles delivered a speech to mark the start of Canada’s new parliamentary session on Thursday, outlining the Carney government’s legislative goals. The address had a major focus on trade tensions with the United States in the Trump era, border policy, and national sovereignty.

“Canada’s prime minister and the US president have begun defining a new economic and security relationship between the two countries,” the King said. He described the partnership as one “rooted in mutual respect and founded on common interests.”

Though there wasn't any direct reference to President Trump, the broader context of the speech touched on recent tensions. Prime Minister Mark Carney invited the King to deliver the speech, later describing the visit as one that “underscores the sovereignty of our country," following frequent comments by Trump that Canada could one day become the "51st state."

Trade policy featured prominently in the speech, with a pledge from the Carney government to confront the challenges of protectionism and global economic uncertainty.

The King acknowledged that Canada is navigating “ongoing trade wars” but relayed the government’s intention to respond decisively.

“We will unleash a new era of growth that will ensure we don’t just survive ongoing trade wars, but emerge from them stronger than ever,” he said.

The government plans to break down internal trade barriers and accelerate key infrastructure projects. The goal is to boost Canada’s position in both traditional and renewable energy markets, with an emphasis on economic competitiveness and job creation. The King added that Canada “has what the world needs and the values the world respects,” and emphasized efforts to deepen ties with “reliable” trading partners.

In addition to economic issues, the speech addressed national security, with new initiatives on border enforcement. The King said the government will introduce legislation giving law enforcement more authority to intercept illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl and its ingredients.

He also referenced new funding for police, a crackdown on cross-border crime, and a plan to “rebuild” the Canadian Armed Forces. Measures to reduce gun smuggling, and auto theft—a major issue for Canada—were also included.

“A confident Canada can seize the current opportunity by recognizing that all Canadians can give themselves far more than any foreign power on any continent can ever take away,” the King said.

He closed the address with a line that received a strong response from Parliament: “As the anthem reminds us: The True North is indeed strong and free.”

This marks the first time since 1977 that a sitting monarch has delivered a throne speech in Canada. Concluding the address, the King thanked Canadians for their hospitality and said: “May God bless and guide you in all your duties.”