King Charles, Queen Camilla set to arrive in Canada today

By Canadian Press on May 26, 2025.

OTTAWA — King Charles and Queen Camilla touch down in Ottawa today to kick off a royal tour — their first visit to Canada since the King’s coronation two years ago.

When they land Monday afternoon, the couple will travel to Lansdowne Park — a large events venue in the heart of the nation’s capital — to meet with community members.

The King and Queen will then head to Rideau Hall to meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney and Gov. Gen. Mary Simon, who acts as the representative of the Crown in Canada.

Simon issued a media statement Monday morning welcoming the King and Queen to Canada.

“The presence of Their Majesties at this pivotal moment in our history holds profound significance. It reaffirms the enduring constitutional bond that has shaped Canada’s journey into a proud and independent nation,” Simon said.

“The Crown’s role in Canada is more than symbolic; it serves as a cornerstone of the democratic freedoms and rights we cherish. The presence of Their Majesties fosters a sense of unity among Canadians, reminding us of the shared values that bring us together — respect, compassion and hope.”

Carney has asked the King to read the speech from the throne on Tuesday, which sets out the government’s priorities for the legislative session.

It will be the first time Canada’s head of state has opened Parliament since Queen Elizabeth II did so in 1977.

Carney said in a media statement Monday that “this historic honour matches the weight of our times.”

“To that end, the speech from the throne will outline the government’s ambitious plan to act with urgency and determination, and to deliver the change Canadians want and deserve: to define a new economic and security relationship with the United States, to build the strongest economy in the G7, to bring down the cost of living, and to keep communities safe,” he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 26, 2025.

The Canadian Press