OTTAWA, Canada −King Charles, speaking during a symbolic visit to show support for Canada at a time it has faced U.S. annexation threats, on Tuesday expressed his love for Canada and said the country would remain "strong and free." Charles, Canada's head of state, is the first British monarch in almost 70 years to preside over the opening of the Canadian parliament. More:King Charles visits Canada in show of support for country eyed by Trump In a speech, Charles referred to the "the country that Canadians and I love so much" but made no direct reference to U.S. PresidentDonald Trump, who hasimposed tariffson Canadian exports andmuses aboutturning Canada intothe 51st U.S. state. More:Mark Carney tells President Trump that Canada is 'not for sale' "The True North is indeed strong and free," Charles said, referring to the Canadian national anthem. The speech outlining the government's plans for the next session was largely written by officials working for Prime MinisterMark Carney. But Charles was responsible for the comments about his love for Canada. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:King Charles shows Canada love amid Trump threats and tariffs