King Charles warmly welcomed Canada's new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, during his visit to Buckingham Palace. This meeting was a symbolic gesture of support for Canada, as the nation faces challenges from U.S. President Donald Trump. The King, who wore a red tie, often communicates his support through subtle signals rather than direct statements. Although a planned visit to Canada in 2024 was postponed due to the King's cancer diagnosis, it remains a priority for him to visit after Canada's election.
During their meeting, Carney mentioned that his Order of Canada pin had broken, prompting the King to jokingly offer his own. The King congratulated Carney on his new role and expressed hope that the broken pin was not indicative of any strain in Commonwealth relations. They engaged in a private 30-minute conversation.
Carney also met with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street. Starmer praised the strong ties between the UK and Canada, highlighting their shared history, values, and monarchy. Carney expressed gratitude for the warm welcomes and productive discussions with both Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron.
At a press conference, Carney addressed questions about the lack of public support from allies amid Trump's trade war with Canada and his comments about making Canada a U.S. state. Carney emphasized Canada's sovereignty and pride, noting that Sir Keir had acknowledged Canada's independence and their shared monarch, King Charles III.
The meeting with Carney is part of a delicate diplomatic effort by King Charles, who must balance his support for Canada with maintaining the UK's relationship with Trump. The King avoids direct political involvement and adheres to ministerial advice, despite any personal views he may have on Trump's comments about Canada.
The UK's royal family is a significant diplomatic asset with Trump, who was pleased with his second state visit invitation. King Charles communicates through symbolic gestures, such as wearing Canadian medals during a visit to HMS Prince of Wales and sending a message on the 60th anniversary of Canada's maple leaf flag. He also presented a ceremonial sword to Canada and chose a maple tree for a planting ceremony at Buckingham Palace. At a recent Commonwealth Service, he sat on a Canadian chair.
These gestures have not gone unnoticed, but some Canadians express frustration, feeling that more robust support is needed. Emails to the BBC's Royal Watch newsletter reveal mixed feelings, with some Canadians questioning the King's actions and the UK's invitation to Trump for a second state visit.
Despite these tensions, King Charles must follow the guidance of ministers, which may require maintaining cordial relations with Trump. As a result, he is unlikely to make any outspoken statements.