Charles feted as he arrives in Canada for historic visit

Canada's prime minister praised the historic ties between his nation and the UK "that crises only fortify" as the King and Queen were welcomed to Ottawa yesterday.

- TONY JONES

Charles and Camilla experienced all aspects of Canadian life from street hockey to a greeting from indigenous people as they began a two-day visit seen as a show of support for the country in the face of challenges from US president Donald Trump.

Mr Carney was by the royal couple’s side for part of their first day in the Canadian capital and he described the role the King will play at the state opening of the Canadian Parliament today as an “historic honour” that “matches the weight of our times”.

Canada has faced the unwanted attention of Mr Trump who has launched a trade war against its neighbour and made threats to annex the country as America’s 51st state.

Charles dropped a puck to start a game of street hockey when they met the public in the nearby Lansdowne Park during the first royal event of the day, and the couple were welcomed by shouts of “welcome home” and “God save the King” at the community gathering.

Mr Carney, the former governor of the Bank of England, and his wife Diana Fox Carney, acted as hosts to show their royal guests around stalls showcasing the diversity and heritage of modern Canada.