Carney's invitation to King Charles was in part a message to Trump, who has made repeated remarks undermining its sovereignty. Tensions with Canada's neighbour were a theme throughout, though the US president was never mentioned by name. The speech opened with an appeal to patriotism as a trade war looms with the US, Canada's largest economic partner.

The King spoke of the "pleasure and pride" of being in the country at a time of renewed "national pride, unity, and hope". He expressed his "admiration for Canada's unique identity" and its growth since the last time a sovereign opened parliament – Queen Elizabeth II in 1957. (She gave a second throne speech 20 years later).

It has become "a bold, ambitious, innovative country," he said. "The Crown has for so long been a symbol of unity for Canada," the King added. "It also represents stability and continuity from the past to the present.

As it should, it stands proudly as a symbol of Canada today, in all her richness and dynamism." The speech concluded on a similar note: "As the anthem reminds us: The True North is indeed strong and free!" The King's decision to open parliament – a role traditionally left to the governor general, his top representative in Canada – has been seen as a symbolic show of support for the Commonwealth nation.

Later in the day, Trump again suggested that Canada should be annexed by the US – an idea that Ottawa has flatly rejected – as he touted his plan for a North American missile defence shield. The US president posted on his Truth Social network that his so-called Golden Dome project would cost Canada $61bn "if they remain a separate, but unequal, Nation, but will cost ZERO DOLLARS if they become our cherished 51st State". "They are considering the offer!"

he claimed.