OTTAWA - The Swedish royal family has arrived in Ottawa for a three-day state visit, marking their first trip to Canada since 2006. King Carl XVI Gustaf, the longest reigning monarch of Sweden, and Queen Silvia are accompanied by a delegation of high-ranking government ministers and representatives from numerous Swedish companies.

This morning, the royal couple was officially welcomed at Rideau Hall by a Canadian delegation that includes Chief Justice Richard Wagner. Following the welcome ceremony, the royals will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor those who have served.

In the afternoon, King Carl and Queen Silvia are scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney and other Canadian officials on Parliament Hill. A news release from Global Affairs Canada indicates that Canada and Sweden will reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukraine during an event later today. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand will lead discussions with Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch and members of the Ukrainian-Canadian community.

The day will conclude with a state dinner in honor of the King and Queen at the residence of the Governor General. This visit highlights the strong ties between Canada and Sweden and aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations.