The King’s 20th visit to Canada comes at a consequential time for Canada and signals a clear message to US President Donald Trump and the rest of the world. It’s been almost 50 years since a British monarch has delivered a Speech from the Throne and just shy of seven decades since one opened a new session of parliament – showing just how rare an occasion it is.
Mark Carney wants to send a message: that Canada is reaffirming its ties to the Crown.
After recent governments sought to assert their independence from the British monarchy, the new prime minister is keen to embrace the connection – and hopes the visit will be interpreted as an expression of support for Canada’s independence. But British ministers are reportedly keen to shield the King from any political controversy during his less than 24-hour visit.
The grand display of pomp and pageantry will highlight the country’s unique British traditions, with its Parliament modelled on Britain’s, and prove to Americans just how different Canada is to them; following Donald Trump’s repeated claims that the country is a “51st state”
By cosying up to the King, Mr Carney can also hope to improve relations with the royal-loving US President, after the economist was elected on the back of an anti-Trump campaign, criticising his trade war aggressions and antagonist posturing toward Canada.
Mr Carney’s invitation isn’t just about the US however, as the Prime Minister has made no secret of his desire to form a closer alliance with European allies.
Just days after he was sworn in as prime minister, Mr Carney headed to Europe for a diplomatic showcase, as he spoke of the need to deepen Canada’s trade and security ties with Europe.
But the transatlantic dash by the King, while he continues to undergo weekly cancer treatment, signals just how important the visit is for him personally.
In recent months we have seen him use symbolic gestures to signal his support for the Commonwealth country.
He’s walked a delicate diplomatic tightrope, making sure he hasn’t stepped into the political terrain.
Instead, he’s opted for red ties, worn a set of Canadian medals, marked the 60th anniversary of Canada’s maple leaf flag by issuing a message praising the “proud, resilient and compassionate country” and sat on a Canadian chair for this year’s Commonwealth Service.
These subtle gestures emphasise the King’s commitment to Canada, with royal sources indicating that he sees this visit as being of vital importance to show his longstanding commitment and admiration for the country.
Every word of his speech today will be scrutinised for signs of support for Canada and the prime minister, but it is important to remember that is the government who has written the words, and not the Palace.
Nonetheless, Canadians at home will be watching from their TV screens ready to decipher the subtext at a time when support for the monarchy is on the rise.
The King’s visit has been a long time coming, with a tour pencilled in for last spring cancelled due to his cancer diagnosis and the Canadian election preventing it from being rescheduled.
