Canada spent $9 million last month to purchase a luxury apartment in Manhattan to serve as the official residence for its consul general in New York, but the federal government is refusing to disclose what is happening regarding the old property.

The Canadian Global Affairs Ministry was forced to acknowledge that it was behind the purchase after some New York real estate rumors suggested that the apartment deal had been made on behalf of King Charles himself.

The title deed shows that it was listed for more than $6.6 million and was sold last month to "His Majesty the King for Canada."

This led some local media to report that a royal purchase had occurred, including the New York Post, which published a story titled "King Charles Buys Luxury Apartment in New York City on Billionaire's Row."

Global Affairs then moved to correct the notion by informing the newspaper that the king would not be the one using the residence.

A spokesperson for the ministry told Canadian media that the purchase would ultimately save Canadian taxpayers $2 million.

Charlotte MacLeod stated that the old residence – which property listings show is located at 550 Park Avenue – does not meet code and fails to meet management standards.

MacLeod added that renovating it would require "significant investments" since it was last renovated in 1982.

She said, "Considering the high renovation costs of the current residence and the property's value, Canadian Global Affairs recommended moving to a new, smaller, more suitable, and more economical apartment."

The Canadian Foreign Ministry did not respond to repeated questions about what it plans to do with the old residence.

The new apartment is located in the Steinway Tower, a building known to be the thinnest skyscraper in the world and just steps away from Central Park.

The listing for the new unit shows that it contains three bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, along with a wet bar and a powder room finished with agate jewels – while Canadian officials intensify their pleas ahead of the upcoming American elections. – A large space for entertaining.

The official residence is used for diplomatic activities, including receptions, communications, formal briefs, and hospitality events like discussions with business leaders and political leaders.

Tom Clark, a former journalist, was appointed as Canada’s consul general in New York in February 2023 by Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly. Her office did not respond to a request for comment on the property purchase.

Opposition Conservatives are not convinced there is a need for the luxury apartment while Canada is facing a housing crisis.

Leader of the Opposition in the House of Commons Andrew Scheer stated, "While Canadians cannot afford to buy a home because the Trudeau Government has doubled housing costs, Justin Trudeau spent $9 million on a luxury apartment on Billionaire's Row for his retired media friend whom he appointed consul general."

"This perfectly reflects the last nine years of the Trudeau Government, where ordinary Canadians are continually punished by his inflationary policies, but his friends and liberal insiders are better off than ever."