King Charles arrives in Canada for first visit as head of state
King Charles has arrived in Canada for his first visit as the country's head of state.
The 76-year-old, who is still undergoing treatment for an undisclosed cancer, landed in Ottawa shortly after 1pm (6pm UK time).
Steven Guilbeault, Canada's minister of identity and culture, said: "His Majesty's delivery of the Speech from the Throne to open the 45th Parliament is a momentous occasion, one that brings Canadians together in celebration of our rich history, our democracy, and the institutions that serve us all.
"This visit offers an opportunity to showcase the special relationship between Canada and the Crown, while also highlighting the strength, diversity, and unity that define us on the world stage."
They're here just 23 hours, but Canada's making the most of every moment.
The capital, Ottawa, red-carpet ready for this rapid royal visit.
The King is a familiar face here, but this is his first trip as head of state.
A chance for him to meet Canadians and show them what his monarchy stands for.
A whirlwind walkabout at a cultural event was the people-pleasing part of a political visit.
Speaking to those in the crowds, the only topic they wanted to talk about, President Trump. They know this visit is the ultimate assertion of Canadian sovereignty.
That's probably why new prime minister, Mark Carney, stayed close to the King.
His presence to attend the state opening of parliament is another significant and symbolic gesture, in this short but strategic visit.
The King opening Canada's parliament was a "clear message of sovereignty" and "not coincidental", Mr Carney said after revealing that Canadians "weren't impressed" by the decision of the UK government to offer Donald Trump an unprecedented second state visit to the UK.
Mr Carney said the invitation Sir Keir Starmer handed to the US president earlier this year "cut across clear messages" that the Canadian government was trying to send to the White House in response to their threats against Canada's sovereignty, including Mr Trump's idea for it to be America's 51st state.
-SKY NEWS
