King Charles showcased one of his skills during a private audience with Canadian officials at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.
Charles, who is King of Canada, welcomed Gregory Peters, who is Usher of the Black Rod of the Senate of Canada, and Senate Speaker Raymonde Gagne on Wednesday afternoon.
The King, who is fluent in French, is said to have delivered a warm exchange of greetings in French and English. Wednesday’s audience is said to have lasted 30 minutes, featuring topics of great concern to all parties, both nationally and internationally. It was held to present Mr Peters with a new ceremonial sword commissioned by the Senate in the King’s honour to mark the change of reign.
Charles is said to have shared his personal thanks for what was described as such a thoughtful gesture as he bestowed the sword on Mr Peters.
The audience, which has long been scheduled, came as US President Donald Trump threatened historic financial devastation for Canada amid an escalating and erratic trade war, alongside repeated vows to make the country America’s 51st state.
Incoming Canadian prime minister Mark Carney has pledged to keep retaliatory tariffs in place until the US commits to free trade.
Mr Trump had threatened to double his planned tariffs on steel and aluminium from 25% to 50% for Canada, but hours later halted the plan.
The King is “very conscious” of his global responsibility and unique diplomatic role and is determined to put that to use, a royal source previously said.
Charles met outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the start of the month, a day after he received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Sandringham.
The monarch was hailed for offering a show of solidarity to Mr Zelensky by warmly welcoming him after the president’s dramatic Oval Office clash with Mr Trump.
The challenges Canada faces with its nearest neighbour were said to be high on the agenda, as was support for Ukraine, when the King met Mr Trudeau on March 3.
