King Charles and Queen Camilla have arrived in Ottawa, greeted by Prime Minister Mark Carney, his wife Diana, and Governor General Mary Simon.The royal couple landed Monday afternoon at Ottawa’s Macdonald-Cartier International Airport for a two-day visit culminating in Charles’ Throne Speech, which he is scheduled to deliver Tuesday. They were met on the tarmac by members of the Royal Canadian Dragoons, a regiment King Charles serves as colonel-in-chief—a ceremonial title he has held since 1977. According to the Department of National Defence, the regiment's participation reflects “long-standing ties between the Crown and Canadian Armed Forces.".The King and Queen’s transatlantic journey to Ottawa was made aboard a Royal Canadian Air Force CC-150 Polaris jet, dispatched from 437 Transport Squadron based at CFB Trenton. Canadian officials confirmed the aircraft was sent to the United Kingdom specifically to transport the monarch — a symbolic gesture emphasizing the Crown's unique constitutional and cultural relationship with Canada.“It is an honour for Canada to provide transport for His Majesty,” a Department of National Defence spokesperson said in a statement.“It signals both respect and autonomy — a reminder that while the King is sovereign of several realms, this visit is undertaken as King of Canada.”.Following the reception, the couple attended a public street festival at Lansdowne Park, organized by the City of Ottawa and the National Capital Commission. According to city officials, more than 6,000 people were estimated to be in attendance..The visit marks King Charles' first official appearance in Canada since ascending the throne. His itinerary reflects a mix of ceremonial duties and personal interests, with stops planned at the Canadian Museum of History and a roundtable on Indigenous reconciliation hosted at Rideau Hall..Among Monday’s engagements was a ceremonial tree planting on the grounds of Rideau Hall, continuing a royal tradition that dates back more than a century. According to the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General, more than 150 trees have been planted by members of the Royal Family in Canada since 1901. The king added a red maple sapling to the ceremonial grove — a nod to Canada’s national emblem and a symbol of enduring ties between the Crown and the land.."His Majesty has always expressed a deep affection for Canada and a sincere interest in its people and cultures," said Simon in a statement.."This visit is both a continuation of tradition and an opportunity to engage on issues that matter deeply to Canadians."Security was visible, with Ottawa Police, RCMP and military personnel forming a coordinated police presence. Most of the day’s events were open to the public..Tuesday's Throne Speech, to be delivered in the Senate chamber, is expected to outline the federal government's legislative priorities for the coming year. It will be the first time in more than 70 years that a reigning monarch delivers the address in person.The royal couple will depart Canada Wednesday morning, concluding what officials are calling a "highly symbolic and warmly received" visit.
