5 key messages in King Charles's speech from the throne

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.

The speech started with Charles harking back to when Queen Elizabeth was the first monarch to read a Canadian throne speech nearly 70 years ago.

"When my dear late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, opened a new Canadian Parliament in 1957, the Second World War remained a fresh, painful memory," the King read Tuesday.

"The Cold War was intensifying. Freedom and democracy were under threat. Canada was emerging as a growing economic power and a force for peace in the world."

Painting a picture of contrast between the U.S. and Canada, Charles noted that the monarchy has "for so long been a symbol of unity for Canada," saying that the Crown "represents stability and continuity from the past to the present."

Once again referencing his mother, Charles said she believed that "no nation could live unto itself."

"It is a source of great pride that, in the following decades, Canada has continued to set an example to the world in her conduct and values, as a force for good," he said.

While referencing the challenges Canada has overcome since Elizabeth's 1957 visit, Charles said new hurdles were now presenting themselves. 

"Today, Canada faces another critical moment," The King said. "Democracy, pluralism, the rule of law, self-determination and freedom are values which Canadians hold dear, and ones which the government is determined to protect."

"The system of open global trade that, while not perfect, has helped to deliver prosperity for Canadians for decades, is changing," The King added. "Canada's relationships with partners are also changing."