OTTAWA: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday addressed reports that U.S. officials had met with separatist advocates from Alberta, emphasizing that he expects the U.S. administration to respect Canadian sovereignty.
The Financial Times reported that State Department officials held three meetings with the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP), a group advocating for a referendum on whether the energy-rich western province should secede from Canada. Carney said President Donald Trump has never raised the issue of Alberta separatism with him and reiterated that he consistently communicates Canada’s sovereign interests in discussions with the U.S. president.
The APP claims Ottawa’s policies are harming Alberta’s economy and reportedly plans to seek a $500 billion credit facility from U.S. officials in a meeting next month. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith affirmed her desire for Alberta to remain part of Canada but acknowledged that roughly 30% of residents are frustrated with federal interference.
A key point of contention involves Alberta’s request for a new oil pipeline to the Pacific, which would need to cross British Columbia. BC Premier David Eby rejected the proposal and described seeking U.S. assistance to break up Canada as “treason.”
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent previously indicated a willingness to meet with Alberta separatists, noting that “people want sovereignty” similar to what the U.S. enjoys. Analysts note the tensions come amid ongoing trade negotiations, including a review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade pact later this year.
