King Charles, Queen Camilla land in Canada

King Charles and Queen Camilla landed at the Ottawa airport, beginning their two-day visit to Canada on Monday.

Charles' trip is his first visit to the former British colony since becoming king in September 2022.

According to the local media, the royal couple will make two public appearances in the capital city afterward: at Lansdowne Park and Rideau Hall, on Monday.

The king will open parliament in Ottawa on Tuesday, the first time a British monarch has carried out the duty since his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, did so 68 years ago.

CBC reported that hundreds of people were packed behind fences at Lansdowne Park, waiting to catch a glimpse of the King. 

Many were wearing red, holding miniature Canadian flags or white flowers they’re hoping to hand him.

King Charles is in Canada for a highly symbolic visit showing support for the nation that that recognises him as its sovereign but is coveted by U.S. President Donald Trump as a 51st U.S. state.

Charles has made subtle signals of his backing for Canada in recent months, wearing Canadian medals, calling himself the king of Canada, and describing its flag as "a symbol that never fails to elicit a sense of pride and admiration".