Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is scheduled to have discussions with American officials next week, following her recent call for Canada to prioritize diplomacy and steer clear of further escalation in the ongoing trade conflict. Smith’s press secretary, Sam Blackett, mentioned that the premier had a pre-planned personal trip to the United States but will allocate time to engage with officials, accompanied by Alberta’s senior U.S. representative, Nathan Cooper. Blackett stated on Friday that the meeting will involve discussions with the commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the head of the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, and the CEO of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.
In response to the breakdown of Canada-U.S. trade talks last week, Smith criticized the behavior of the United States, emphasizing the need for Canada to refrain from using aggressive tactics. She emphasized the importance of Canadian officials continuously highlighting the damaging impact of tariffs and offering assistance once they are lifted.
Blackett highlighted that Alberta is actively involved in various organizations like the Council of State Governments (CSG) Midwest, with MLA Jennifer Johnson representing Alberta. Furthermore, MLA Shane Getson is set to participate in the Ports-to-Plains conference in Del Rio, Texas, as part of Alberta’s ongoing efforts.
During the upcoming U.S. organization’s annual Midwestern Legislative Conference, Johnson, a member of Smith’s United Conservative caucus, will be joined by six members from Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe’s caucus. While Saskatchewan holds full membership in the Council of State Governments Midwest, Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario are affiliate members.
The Alberta government disclosed that representatives from 11 U.S. states are expected to attend the conference in Saint Paul, Minn., from Sunday to Wednesday. Johnson will advocate for Alberta’s priorities in energy, trade, and agriculture during the event. Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit confirmed his attendance, emphasizing widespread support for the continuity of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement in the agricultural sector during a recent conference in Wisconsin.
In addition to Marit, Saskatchewan’s Rural Health Minister Lori Carr, legislature Speaker Todd Goudy, and three Saskatchewan Party backbenchers will also participate in the conference.