5 key messages in King Charles’s speech from the throne [Video]

King Charles began and concluded the throne speech in Ottawa on Tuesday with references to his mother Queen Elizabeth’s longstanding relationship with this country, while highlighting the challenges Canada faces from its southern neighbour and how the Liberal government plans to address them.

The speech, which was written by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government but presented by the Sovereign, is normally a routine affair in Canada. But after the annexation threats by U.S. President Donald Trump in recent months, it took on an added political significance.

The King’s presence in the Senate, by itself, reminded the White House that Canada is not an American state in waiting, with an identical form of government. It highlighted Canada’s distinct identity, culture, history and traditions of governance.

The content of the speech, meanwhile, attempted to show that Canada is prepared to carve out its place in the Trump era.

Here are five key moments from the throne speech.