Swedish royal visit begins in Ottawa as Canada highlights ties with Nordic partner

Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia are in Ottawa today as they begin a three-day state visit that includes meetings with federal leaders, military commemorations, and discussions on international security. The visit is the royal couple’s first trip to Canada in nearly two decades and comes at a time when both countries are deepening co-operation through NATO and shared support for Ukraine.

The King and Queen were formally welcomed at Rideau Hall this morning by a Canadian delegation that included Chief Justice Richard Wagner. Their program in the capital also features a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a symbolic gesture that aligns with Canada’s ongoing military commitments and remembrance traditions.

Later today, the royals are scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mark Carney and senior federal officials on Parliament Hill. The discussions are expected to touch on bilateral trade, defence co-operation, and Scandinavian investment in Canada, particularly as Swedish companies expand their presence in Western Canada’s clean-technology and transportation sectors.

Global Affairs Canada says the two governments will jointly reaffirm their support for Ukraine during an afternoon event that brings together Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch, and members of the Ukrainian-Canadian community. Canada hosts one of the world’s largest Ukrainian diasporas, including substantial communities in Alberta and British Columbia.

A state dinner honouring the King and Queen will be held at Rideau Hall this evening, marking the ceremonial start of several engagements planned in both Ottawa and Montreal.