Charles hails 'strong and free' Canada in rare speech to its parliament

King Charles has said Canadians can "give themselves far more than any foreign power on any continent can ever take away" as he gave a rare speech in the country's parliament that served as a rebuke to the US president, Donald Trump, and his threats to annex the country.

- Leyland Cecco

Charles, who serves as Canada's head of state, is the first British monarch since 1957 to preside over the opening of a new Canadian parliament.

In a speech attended by lawmakers, Indigenous leaders and dignitaries, Charles, on his 20th visit, praised a country he said he loved "so much".

"The True North is indeed strong and free," he said – a reference to both the Canadian national anthem and recent threats from Trump to make Canada the 51st state.

The speech from the throne is typically given by the governor general and is meant to outline the government's plans for the next session.

The speech is written by the prime minister's office in consultation with staff at the king's office.

The king made no direct reference to Trump, but his language was closely watched for implicit criticisms of the US president and his dramatic recasting of the US relationship with Canada.