Premiers from Western Canada and the northern territories are scheduled to meet in Kananaskis, Alberta, for the annual western premiers conference on Monday and Tuesday. This gathering occurs amid Alberta's turbulent discussions surrounding the potential of secession from Canada, spurred by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's recent announcement about hosting a referendum on October 19. Albertans will be asked whether they want to remain a part of Canada or pursue a future binding referendum on separation.
Sam Blackett, a spokesperson for Premier Smith, stated that the conference will primarily focus on crucial topics such as trade, economic growth, energy security, defense, and nation-building initiatives. Blackett noted the premier's eagerness to enhance western partnerships and unveil plans aimed at unlocking the true economic potential of Alberta and the surrounding regions.
During the conference, discussions will inevitably touch upon Alberta's separatist sentiments, with Premier David Eby of British Columbia commenting on the peculiar timing of such a gathering in a province led by a premier who seems to be contemplating leaving the country. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew expressed his desire to convey his love for Canada and hopes that fellow premiers will do the same during the conference, emphasizing a collective national identity.
Kinew remarked, “When we build our nation-building project in Churchill, I hope it’s a big old hug to our friends in Alberta and that they realize there’s no point in having a referendum and that Canada is the best country in the world.” As these discussions unfold, Smith is closely monitoring Ottawa's nation-building projects, particularly in relation to a recently announced national importance declaration for a bitumen pipeline to the West Coast, which is part of a broader agreement involving relaxed carbon pricing for Alberta.
This agreement has drawn ire from Eby, who has consistently opposed the envisioned pipeline traversing British Columbia to reach international markets, citing environmental concerns and the need for equitable treatment of provincial projects. Eby stated that his priority in conversations with Prime Minister Mark Carney was to ensure that British Columbia receives attention similar to what Alberta is getting in terms of project support and investment.
In response to queries regarding his discussions with Carney about the contested pipeline, Eby emphasized his commitment to advocating for British Columbia projects rather than those of Premier Smith. Meanwhile, Smith hopes Carney can persuade Eby regarding the pipeline, citing the potential benefits for nation-building projects in British Columbia.
A gesture of camaraderie is expected as Smith plans to present Eby with a pair of cowboy boots during the conference. The premiers of Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, and Yukon have confirmed their attendance, while Nunavut Premier John Main will be participating virtually due to legislative commitments in his territory.
Main expressed his interest in discussions related to Arctic security and defense, particularly as Ottawa increases funding in these areas in response to evolving geopolitical dynamics. Carney has committed to achieving NATO's defense spending target of 3.5% and an additional 1.5% on defense-related initiatives by 2035.
This conference represents a crucial moment for western premiers to unite amid varying provincial interests and to collaboratively navigate the complexities of trade, economic strategy, and national identity in the face of growing separatist sentiments in Alberta.
