King Charles's Canada visit sends political message to Trump

Like his mother, King Charles III shows his thinking in subtle ways. In February, for instance, he called the Canadian flag a "symbol of a proud, resilient and compassionate country," in remarks to mark the flag's 60th anniversary—an event that seldom gains Royal attention.

Likewise, during his March visit to inspect the warship HMS Prince of Wales, he wore several Canadian medals. On Commonwealth Day in London later that month, he chose to sit in a Canadian chair during the celebration, while at a tree-planting event at Buckingham Palace, he planted a maple tree—the national tree of Canada, which features on its flag.

Shared values

In Canada on 27 May, King Charles's decision to deliver the speech in person despite undergoing treatment for cancer was taken as yet another subtle sign of support, as was his declaration that "the True North is indeed strong and free".

Every time he comes to Canada, he said, "a little more of Canada seeps into my bloodstream, and from there straight into my heart". He praised Canada's "unique identity, recognised around the world for its steadfast defence of fundamental values, and for the kindness and diversity of its people".

Noting that the country stood at a "consequential moment", he reiterated the values that Canadians stand for: democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination, and freedom. Canadians "understand that what unites them is far stronger than anything that can ever divide them," intoned the monarch. "By holding true to Canadian values, Canada can build new alliances and a new economy that delivers for everyone."

Trade relations

Then he turned to trade. Free trade had served Canada well for decades, he said. "But it is changing. Canada's relationships with its partners are changing. Let us be clear-eyed: the world is more dangerous and more uncertain than it has been since the end of the Second World War."

Although unsettling, these changes also presented an opportunity, Charles said. "A chance for renewal, a chance to think and act anew, a chance for Canada to embark on the greatest economic transformation since the Second World War. A confident Canada, one that welcomes newcomers—including from some of the world's most troubled places—can seize this moment."

Discussing the Trump-induced recalibration in relations between trading partners, the King said: "Canada has what the world needs and values what the world respects. Canada stands ready to build an alliance of like-minded nations: those who share our values and believe in international cooperation and the free and open flow of goods, services and ideas."

Internal barriers

Canada, comprising ten provinces and three territories, hosts the G7 Summit in June. The King said the government's "overriding goal and core mission is to build the strongest economy in the G7," adding: "That begins by building one Canadian economy, not 13. Internal barriers to trade and labour mobility cost our economy up to $200bn every year."

All remaining federal barriers to internal trade and labour mobility would be removed by 1 July, he said, "to achieve free trade across the country by Canada Day… When Canadians unite, they build what endures".

The government has pledged to advance "nationally significant projects, ones that will connect the country, deepen Canada's global ties and create good-paying jobs for generations," said Charles. "Given the pace of change and the scale of opportunity, speed is of the essence."

A new Federal Permitting Coordinator will reduce timelines for project approvals from five years to two, he explained, but environmental standards would be upheld (unlike in the United States). All of this would "unlock a new era of growth, one that allows Canada not just to survive today's trade wars, but to emerge stronger than ever," said King Charles.

Border security

Among the gripes mentioned by President Trump when justifying his high tariffs against Canada (that were this week ruled illegal by a US court) was border security and drug trafficking, accusing Canada of not doing enough to stop fentanyl from flowing into the United States.

Trump has also said Canada must pay $61bn to benefit from his newly envisaged 'Golden Dome' missile defence system—adding that it would be free if Canada agreed to become America's 51st state.

"To be truly strong, Canada must also be secure," said King Charles, in what appeared to be a nod to Trump. "The Government will introduce legislation to strengthen border security. Law enforcement and intelligence agencies will be given new tools to stop the flow of fentanyl and its precursors."

An additional 1,000 Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers would be hired, he said, while scanners, drones, helicopters and dog units would be deployed to reduce the flow of illegal guns and drugs across the border.

Concluding his speech, King Charles said: "In this time of profound change, Canadians are united behind what makes this country unique." Many saw it as a powerful statement of support for Canada and a reaffirmation of its sovereignty.

In recent weeks, Prime Minister Carney has repeatedly said: "Canada is not for sale." In far more subtle ways, King Charles may now have said it, too.