King Charles in Canada: a message to Trump?
King Charles III has delivered his throne speech at the opening of the new parliament in the Canadian capital of Ottawa. Although he didn't make direct reference to President Donald Trump's proposal to make Canada the 51st state of the US, his speech contained a few side blows. "The true north is indeed strong and free," said the British monarch in reference to Canada's national anthem. Commentators discuss the royal visit.
Backing from the monarchy
The Daily Telegraph says Charles III's visit sends a clear message to Trump:
“This is much more than a dutiful gesture on the part of the King. It has a deliberate geopolitical resonance, a signal to the US president Donald Trump that his persistent overtures to Canadians to join their neighbour as its 51st state should cease. ... While the monarch is usually well advised to steer away from overt political controversy, when it comes to underlining his commitment to a country of which he is head of state there can be no compunction. Mr Trump's constant goading and belittling of Canada ... is the action of a braggart and a bully, though the King will be far too diplomatic to put it in such terms.”
Part of the national identity
The Canadians can consider themselves lucky to have the monarchy, writes The Guardian:
“King Charles III is a potent symbol of Canada's history and system of government; a system and government that stand in contrast to the flailing republicanism of the US. The monarchy is a distinctly Canadian symbol, free of partisan affiliation, and thus an institution all Canadians can celebrate after a rancorous election, regardless of which party they voted for. Even the Conservatives who proudly hung black 'Fuck Trudeau' flags in their windows can show up with mini-Canada flags to welcome Charles. This gives the impression of a country united in its sense of self in the face of a leering US threat.”