EDMONTON — Premier Danielle Smith is travelling to Quebec City this week to meet with Quebec’s premier, government officials and business leaders as Alberta seeks to strengthen economic ties and deepen cooperation with one of Canada’s largest provincial economies.
Smith will be in Quebec from June 2 to June 4 for meetings focused on trade, investment, economic growth and provincial autonomy.
The Alberta government says the visit is intended to build stronger interprovincial relationships and identify opportunities for increased collaboration between the two provinces at a time when governments across Canada are looking to reduce internal trade barriers and strengthen the national economy.
Smith is scheduled to meet with Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette for bilateral discussions on key national priorities.
According to Alberta, discussions will focus on strengthening economic ties, encouraging investment and examining ways the provinces can work together while respecting provincial jurisdiction within Confederation.
“Alberta and Quebec share a belief that the strength of Canada depends on respect for provincial autonomy, democratic expression and the constitutional rights of provinces to determine their own future within Confederation,” Smith said in a statement.
“I am eager to meet with Premier Fréchette to explore ways we can harness our shared determination and ensure respect for Alberta and Quebec within our federation.”
The visit comes as provincial leaders across the country increasingly emphasize the importance of interprovincial trade and economic cooperation as a means of improving Canada’s competitiveness and reducing reliance on foreign markets.
Alberta and Quebec represent two of Canada’s largest provincial economies. Alberta is Canada’s leading energy producer, while Quebec is a major centre for manufacturing, aerospace, technology and hydroelectric development. Together, the provinces account for a significant share of Canada’s economic output and exports.
The meeting also comes amid growing calls from business groups and governments to remove barriers restricting trade between provinces. Advocates argue stronger east-west commerce could unlock billions of dollars in economic activity, improve labour mobility and create a more resilient national economy.
Observers say stronger ties between Alberta and Quebec could play an important role in advancing domestic trade, attracting investment and reinforcing economic connections between regions with distinct economic strengths.
In addition to meetings with Quebec government officials, Smith is expected to address business leaders, investors and industry representatives during a keynote address and fireside discussion organized by the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce of Quebec.
The Alberta government says those discussions will focus on the economic relationship between the two provinces and opportunities for future cooperation.
Smith is also scheduled to meet with the president of Quebec’s National Assembly.
Alberta says strengthening relationships with other provinces remains a priority as governments work to build a more resilient Canadian economy and identify new opportunities for growth through domestic trade and investment.
Comments