OTTAWA, May 22 (Reuters) — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized the significance of Alberta to the nation on Friday, one day following the petroleum-rich province’s declaration of a non-binding vote on whether citizens wish to stay part of Canada.
This mostly ceremonial action could present a significant obstacle for Carney, who is promoting national cohesion while facing U.S. trade penalties and President Donald Trump’s annexation rhetoric.
“Canada is the greatest country in the world, but it can be better …we’re working with Alberta on making it better,” Carney told reporters.
“We’re renovating the country as we go. And Alberta being at the center of that is essential,” said Carney, who did not specifically mention the referendum announcement.
Separation advocates express dissatisfaction with the environmental policies of Carney’s predecessor Justin Trudeau, claiming these measures damaged the province’s petroleum and natural gas sector.
Carney assumed leadership in March 2025 and later reversed multiple environmental initiatives implemented by Trudeau.
