Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke by telephone with Prince William on Monday, marking the first conversation between the two since Carney became prime minister, according to the Prime Minister’s Office and Kensington Palace. The Prime Minister’s Office did not disclose details about the issues discussed during the call. Kensington Palace said the Prince of Wales and Carney discussed the “enduring strength” of the relationship between Canada and the United Kingdom, as well as William’s longstanding affection for Canada and its people. The conversation comes as Canada and the U.K. continue to strengthen cooperation in areas including defence, security, trade, technology and artificial intelligence. Carney recently met with U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham during a visit to Britain, where the two governments highlighted opportunities to deepen their defence and economic relationship. Canada has also formally applied to join the Joint Expeditionary Force, a multinational defence group led by the United Kingdom.
Canada also joined the Global Combat Air Programme as an observer in July 2026. The initiative involves the U.K., Italy and Japan and focuses on the development of next-generation combat aircraft and related defence technologies. Ottawa and London have said they are exploring further opportunities for defence-industrial cooperation. Economic cooperation is another important part of the bilateral relationship. Canada and the U.K. have been working through their Economic and Trade Working Group on areas including digital trade, critical minerals and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The two countries have also continued discussions aimed at expanding commercial opportunities for businesses in both markets. The call also highlights Prince William’s longstanding personal connection with Canada. William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, chose Canada for their first official overseas tour following their wedding in 2011, visiting communities across the country. William also travelled to Canada with his brother, Prince Harry, for a private trip in 1998.
Unlike King Charles III, who is Canada’s head of state, Prince William currently has no constitutional role in Canada in his position as Prince of Wales. His conversations with political leaders are part of his broader role as heir to the throne and include maintaining relationships with international leaders.
The relationship between Canada and the British monarchy has also received attention in recent years as Canada has faced pressure over its relationship with the United States. King Charles visited Canada in May 2025 and delivered the Speech from the Throne in the Senate, an unusual constitutional occasion for a reigning monarch.
The latest conversation between Carney and William did not result in any publicly announced agreement or new government policy. Instead, it underscored the continuing institutional and personal ties between Canada and the United Kingdom.
With both governments pursuing closer cooperation in defence, trade and emerging technologies, the Canada-U.K. relationship remains an important part of Ottawa’s international partnerships. The two countries are expected to continue discussions on areas where their economic and security interests overlap.