King Charles is preparing for his first official visit to Canada as monarch next week, during which he is expected to deliver a throne speech carrying a firm message aimed at Donald Trump.

As the King prepares for this significant trip, royal sources believe it will strongly affirm Canada’s independence in light of Trump’s past remarks about turning the country into the “51st state of the USA.”

Jeremy Kinsman, former Canadian High Commissioner to the UK, commented that the visit is “a big deal for the King,” and expressed confidence in its purpose. “It’s going to be very affirmative of Canadian sovereignty,” Kinsman said. “And I can say personally that it’s something that King Charles will celebrate saying. I have no doubt.”

Kinsman expects the King’s speech will emphasize that “the government will protect, pursue and preserve the sovereignty of Canada as an independent state.”

An insider at the palace told The Times that the King will be walking a “diplomatic tightrope” during the brief tour.

“He is thoughtful, has mastery of that diplomatic tightrope and has become even more acutely aware of how to walk it out since he has acceded to the throne,” the source said. “Underpinning it all are the warm personal relationships he has with world leaders right across the globe and right across political divides.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney previously stated that Canadians were not “impressed” by the UK’s invitation to President Trump for a state visit. However, Kinsman suggested that Carney’s tone reflected the typically understated Canadian style, pointing out that many in Canada were deeply angered by the UK government’s efforts to court Trump.

Peter Donolo, a director with the Canadian International Council think tank, offered his view to the BBC: “On the one hand they’re using Charles in the UK to curry favour with the Americans and then it seems our government wants to use him to stand up for Canada. You can’t have it both ways.”

Kinsman believes the upcoming speech could help mend recent diplomatic strains. He said the King will reinforce Canada’s independence with a clear message: “Canada will not be the US 51st state.”