The Canadian government is now hosting top EU officials for a two-day summit in Montreal aimed at strengthening trade, defense, and economic cooperation between Canada and the EU. The meeting marks a significant effort to reduce the two regions' reliance on Washington as they navigate a changing world order. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa are among those attending the summit.

Speaking in Montreal on Thursday, von der Leyen emphasized the need for countries to work together in the face of increasing economic pressure from dominant trading partners. She noted that relationships once seen as sources of stability were now being used as tools of coercion. The consequences of this trend were felt by ordinary families, according to von der Leyen.

The EU official pointed out that when trade is used as a means of exerting economic pressure, it is the everyday citizen who bears the brunt. She highlighted examples such as increased costs at the supermarket and higher prices for new cars. Von der Leyen also warned that countries were facing a critical choice between acting alone or working with trusted partners to safeguard their economic security.

The Canadian government's pursuit of closer ties with Europe comes amid growing concerns about its dependence on Washington, particularly in areas like energy, semiconductors, and critical minerals. von der Leyen cautioned that this reliance could be exploited by dominant trading partners, leaving countries vulnerable to economic pressure.

The Canadian government has emphasized that its bid for a closer relationship with the European Union is not aimed at antagonizing the United States.

A senior official in Ottawa maintained that Canada's proposed EU arrangement reflects shared interests and values between the two parties, rather than any intention to defy or undermine US influence.

This stance aligns with remarks made by Mark Carney, who warned of a breakdown in the existing international order dominated by the US at the World Economic Forum in Davos earlier this year.

The Canadian government's push for closer ties with Europe is seen as an attempt to bolster its economic resilience and mitigate the risk of being held hostage by US trade policies.

EU officials are reportedly divided over the scope and structure of a potential partnership, with some questioning whether the label "associate member accurately captures the essence of Canada's proposed relationship.

The proposed partnership between Canada and the European Union is expected to deepen cooperation in various areas, including artificial intelligence, energy, defense, and trade. This enhanced collaboration would allow for greater sharing of knowledge and expertise on cutting-edge technologies.

However, not all EU member states are on board with the associate membership label, which has raised concerns about the scope and structure of a potential partnership. Some countries, such as France and Germany, have expressed reservations about this designation, which may ultimately be subject to change.

The EU's president, von der Leyen, is said to be facing embarrassment over the rejection of associate membership by some member states. This development has sparked further debate on the nature of Canada's proposed relationship with the EU, highlighting the complexities involved in forging closer ties between the two entities.

Canada's Prime Minister has announced plans to strengthen strategic supply chains and encourage joint investment in industries critical to economic security as part of efforts to forge closer ties with the European Union.

The partnership could also provide opportunities for Canadian students and researchers through EU programs such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe, making it easier for professionals to work on both sides of the Atlantic. This is in addition to existing arrangements that allow Canada to participate in the EU's SAFE defense procurement program, a 150-billion-euro initiative allowing non-EU countries to take part in joint European military purchases.

Sector-specific meetings between European commissioners and Canadian Cabinet ministers are set to begin with a business forum on Thursday, ahead of formal leaders' talks on Friday. The aim is to develop a broader partnership for possible endorsement in 2027, marking an expansion of the existing relationship between Canada and the EU.

A key area of contention is defense cooperation, where France is pushing for strict Made in Europe" rules that could limit Canadian companies' access to future EU defense spending. In contrast, Germany favors broader participation, highlighting the complexities involved in forging closer ties between the two entities.

Canada's reliance on the US market is becoming increasingly concerning for its leaders. The country's merchandise exports to the United States accounted for 71.7% of its total in 2025, a figure that has raised concerns about economic vulnerability.

To address this issue, Canada is seeking closer ties with the European Union (EU), including cooperation on critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite. The value of EU imports from Canada for these materials rose by 62% last year to €3.3 billion, highlighting the importance of diversifying supply chains.

The push for closer EU-Canada ties is not without its challenges, but experts believe that even a disagreement over terminology will not derail progress. As one expert noted, any attempt to rapidly reduce reliance on the US economy and military would likely face retaliation from Washington, making gradual cooperation a more feasible goal.

Fortune: https://fortune.com/2026/10/29/canada-associate-member-eu-economic-pressure-us/

The joint declaration seen by Reuters outlines plans for "ever closer association between Canada and the EU, but drops the contentious proposal for associate membership that was put forward by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen six weeks ago. The idea of associate membership had been met with resistance from some EU countries, including Germany, which argued it had no legal status and needed further clarification.

The decision to abandon associate membership is part of a broader strategy by Prime Minister Carney to reduce Canada's reliance on the US. This effort is driven in part by President Donald Trump's imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, which has highlighted the need for alternative economic partnerships.

Deeper ties with Europe are seen as key to achieving this goal, but they also risk straining relations with the US. As trade talks between Canada and the US continue, it remains to be seen how this new approach will be received by President Trump's administration.

The next steps in defining the Canada-EU relationship will be taken over the coming months, with another summit scheduled for next year. Work on this relationship is expected to continue until then, building on the foundations laid out in the joint declaration.

The EU's decision to drop plans for an associate membership status with Canada is a significant development in their bid to deepen ties between the two entities.

This move comes after previous criticism from US officials, including Trump, who described the proposal as laughable and warned that it could lead to trade restrictions if interpreted as a hostile act.

The EU's efforts to establish a closer relationship with Canada have been ongoing for some time, and this week's summit is seen as an opportunity to launch further formal negotiations on key issues such as trade and investment.

According to Mark Carney, one of the architects of the new partnership, the focus will be on making tangible improvements in people's lives through increased economic cooperation and improved connectivity between Europe, Canada, and Asia.

The Canada-EU summit has raised questions about the true intentions behind Canada's bid to strengthen ties with Europe. Former Finance Ministry adviser Julian Karaguesian describes the summit as a bit of a show, suggesting that Canada's efforts to deepen its relationship with the EU are unclear.

According to Karaguesian, increased collaboration between Canada and the EU would not necessarily address the need for Canada to diversify its relationships, given that the US accounts for nearly 70% of Canadian exports. In contrast, the EU represents only about 9% of Canada's total trade, highlighting the significant imbalance in their economic ties.

The summit statement emphasizes the importance of a rules-based international order and expresses regret over the US sanctions imposed on the Netherlands-based International Criminal Court. However, some critics argue that this rhetoric rings hollow, particularly given the current tensions between the US and Europe.

International trade lawyer Barry Appleton agrees with this assessment, describing the EU's emphasis on multilateralism as like sticking a finger into President Trump's eye. This suggests that the EU's efforts to promote international cooperation may be seen as provocative by some in the US.

The decision by Canada and the EU to abandon associate membership plans is seen as a step towards strengthening their ties, but it may also be perceived as provocative by some in the US. This perception stems from the fact that the two parties have agreed to work closely on economic security measures, which might not sit well with Washington.

Critics argue that this move could potentially anger the US, particularly given the EU's commitment to implementing similar digital regulations. The EU-style rules are viewed as a trade barrier by some in the US, and Canada's willingness to align its AI and digital policies with those of Europe may be seen as an attempt to circumvent these restrictions.

The development has been met with enthusiasm from EU officials, who describe it as a historic milestone" in the partnership between the two entities. They emphasize that all member states are on board with fostering the closest possible relationship with Canada, marking a new chapter in their collaborative efforts.

France 24 English: https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20261029-canada-and-eu-drop-associate-membership-plan-in-bid-to-deepen-ties

The hikes, which took place several years ago, were a regular occurrence for the group of central bankers who would meet annually at the symposium. However, it seems that not everyone was as enthusiastic about the rigorous expeditions as they were about the more leisurely strolls taken by others.

Kohn, then vice chair of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, was reportedly unaware of his hiking companions' nickname for their outings, which had earned the moniker death march among peers. It is unclear whether Kohn himself ever knew he was leading these grueling hikes.

Warsh's speech at Jackson Hole served as a reminder to those in attendance that even in the most high-stakes and serious of discussions, there can be room for levity and humor. The reference to the death march hikes may have been intended to humanize Warsh and put his audience at ease.

The contrast between Kohn's grueling hikes and what Warsh described as a more leisurely pace taken by others was likely meant to highlight different approaches to leadership, with some leaders taking a more relaxed approach and others pushing for greater intensity.

Don Kohn was surprised to learn that he would be featured prominently in Kevin Warsh's recent speech at Jackson Hole.

Warsh had approached Kohn before taking the stage to clear the air about the reference to the infamous death march" hikes, which were meant to illustrate different approaches to leadership. According to Kohn, the mention of his grueling hikes was intended as a lighthearted way to break the tension and add some humor to an otherwise serious discussion.

Kohn was pleased with Warsh's speech overall, praising its constructive tone and thoughtful approach to laying out principles for navigating economic challenges. He also appreciated that Warsh acknowledged a previous mistake by discussing the current economic situation in detail, something he had refused to do at the July Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

Warsh's decision to correct his earlier stance was seen as a positive step, particularly given its impact on markets. The fact that yields rose following the speech, with Treasuries shifting uncomfortably, was likely due in part to Warsh's shift away from providing forward guidance, which had become a contentious issue at the July meeting.

Warsh's 100th day in office was marked by a speech at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's annual conference, where he shared insights on inflation and the real economy.

Analysts and economists took comfort from Warsh's hawkish stance on inflation and his consideration for the broader economic implications. This shift in perspective was noted by Don Kohn, who saw it as a constructive approach to artificial intelligence.

Kohn commended Warsh for acknowledging the uncertainties surrounding AI and its potential benefits to monetary policy. He suggested that this marked a departure from earlier views expressed by Warsh on the subject.

Claudia Sahm, creator of the Sahm Recession Indicator, had previously expressed surprise at Warsh's definitive stance on forward guidance.

The Jackson Hole speech delivered by Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh has sparked a range of reactions from market observers and economists.

According to Don Kohn, a veteran of the Federal Reserve, Warsh initially took a firm stance on forward guidance during their interactions, using it as a means to avoid discussing the economy and inflation. This approach was seen as an attempt to sidestep questions about interest rate expectations.

Kohn has expressed his initial disappointment with Warsh's stance, suggesting that the Chairman had become entrenched in his views.

Market analysts were eager to dissect the implications of Warsh's speech, particularly in relation to monetary policy. Some may have been puzzled by the Chairman's decision to begin his address by referencing a hike, albeit one of a physical nature rather than an interest rate increase.

Kohn has also shared some personal anecdotes about his interactions with Warsh and Mark Carney, recalling a memorable hiking trip through Paintbrush Canyon where they engaged in extensive discussions on inflation targets and nominal GDP.

The hikes led by Don Kohn have become infamous in Fed circles, but some believe their reputation has been somewhat exaggerated.

Kohn recalled a memorable trek through Paintbrush Canyon where he engaged in extensive discussions on inflation targets and nominal GDP targets with his counterparts from other central banks.

These informal meetings provided an opportunity for central bankers to trade ideas and share experiences in a more relaxed setting than the conference rooms. Kohn noted that many hikes over the years featured lively conversations about pressing issues, particularly with representatives from other central banks.

Kohn emphasized that these hiking excursions were a valuable platform for open discussions on complex topics, allowing central bankers to gain insight into each other's thinking and approaches.

As Don Kohn's hiking excursions were known for being grueling and intense, Kevin Warsh's approach is seen as more adaptable and open to change. According to Kohn, Warsh came into his role with preconceived ideas but has since adjusted them based on what he has learned while working at the Fed.

Warsh's experience within the institution has provided him with a deeper understanding of its inner workings, including the resources available and the perspectives of his fellow policymakers and staff.

Fortune: https://fortune.com/2026/10/28/kohn-warsh-bernanke-federal-reserve-jackson-hoole-hike/

Keith Wilson, co-chair of the pro-independence group Let Alberta Decide, told supporters at a rally outside the Alberta legislature on Saturday that regardless of the outcome, they had already achieved a significant victory by making separation a major political issue.

Wilson's comments suggest that even if Albertans decide to remain a province and reject the proposal for independence, the movement will continue to push for its goals. The vote is not a direct referendum on independence but rather a decision on whether to initiate the legal process leading up to a potential future referendum on separation.

The separatist movement has made significant strides in convincing hundreds of thousands of Albertans that independence is legally possible and forcing a broader debate over the province's grievances against Ottawa, according to Wilson.

The Alberta separatist movement has attracted a diverse range of supporters, including individuals who opposed COVID-19 vaccine mandates and were part of the 2022 trucker convoy that brought Ottawa to a standstill for weeks. This convergence of interests has been driven by long-standing grievances against the federal government over issues such as energy policies and power distribution.

The pandemic has served as a catalyst for the separatist movement, drawing in activists who felt constrained by COVID-19 restrictions and were influenced by various conspiracy theories. These individuals have joined forces with those who have historically felt alienated from Ottawa, fueling a sense of Western disenfranchisement.

At a recent gathering, Wilson invited American UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland to the stage, where he praised the Canadian trucker convoy as an inspiration for Americans fighting for their rights and freedom to protest. Strickland's endorsement was seen as a significant gesture of support from across the border.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has been vocal in his opposition to Alberta separation, warning that initiating the process would lead to years of economic uncertainty. His concerns are compounded by the ongoing trade war with the US and threats to Canada's sovereignty, which have raised questions about the country's place within North America.

Despite Premier Danielle Smith's opposition to independence, she called for a referendum on Alberta's separation from Canada, which ended in defeat. The vote was met with disappointment by separatist supporters who had been advocating for the province's autonomy.

The pandemic and subsequent vaccine mandates were cited as key factors drawing young people like 23-year-old Madison Holmes into politics. She said COVID-19 was the catalyst that got her involved in activism, initially targeting government policies under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his predecessor.

ABC News International: https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/alberta-separatists-fighting-after-independence-vote-137354542

McGuinty expressed his sadness over the tragic event, confirming that there were both fatalities and injuries as a result of the incident on the base. However, he declined to provide specific numbers or details about what caused the incident, citing the ongoing investigation.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have been involved in the investigation, describing the situation as "very active and delicate. The police received reports of a fire in a training area at the base around 4 p.m. on Saturday, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.

Emergency responders were joined by local authorities, including federal, provincial, and community teams, to coordinate the relief efforts. The nearby town of Wainwright provided hospital and firefighting support, highlighting the collaborative nature of the response to this tragic incident.

The fire that broke out at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright has spread rapidly due to high winds, forcing firefighters from multiple jurisdictions to respond. The Municipal District of Wainwright reported that the blaze had crossed the military base's perimeter fence and was spreading quickly.

In a show of interprovincial solidarity, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe announced that his province would be sending assistance to Alberta, although he did not specify what resources would be deployed. This move highlights the collaborative nature of emergency response efforts in Canada.

Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed condolences to those affected by the fire, saying our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected in a social media post earlier today. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the situation as significant and tragic, noting that many military personnel were being impacted by the blaze.

Canadian Forces Base Wainwright is one of Canada's busiest military training bases, where soldiers prepare for combat operations through realistic battlefield exercises conducted by the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre and the 3rd Canadian Division Training Centre. Authorities are still working to determine what happened, with further information expected in due course.

The people affected by the devastating fire are receiving support from local authorities and community leaders. Canadian Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre has expressed his condolences to those impacted by the blaze, stating that he had spoken with Carney and the defense minister to offer his assistance.

Poilievre took to social media to urge residents in the area to follow emergency instructions and keep roads clear for first responders. His message, Pray for Wainwright, everyone," highlighted the gravity of the situation. The fire has also disrupted advance voting ahead of a crucial referendum on Alberta's potential independence from Canada.

The fire has caused significant disruptions, with two polling locations in Lloydminster and Vermilion closing early due to the incident. Elections Alberta ensured that the ballots were transported securely, minimizing any potential impact on the upcoming vote.

ABC News International: https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/major-fire-breaks-alberta-after-deadly-incident-military-137354452

One such threat comes from US President Donald Trump, who has been waging a trade war and even threatened to make Canada the 51st state. Carney emphasized that Albertans should not take their chances lightly, as the outcome of the vote will be heavily influenced by voter turnout. He specifically told a pro-Canada rally in Edmonton that turnout will determine the result.

The referendum is not a straightforward call for independence, but rather a decision on whether to remain a province or initiate the process towards a future separation vote. Alberta's oil reserves are among its most valuable assets, making it one of the wealthiest regions in Canada.

The closing argument by Mark Carney against Alberta's path to independence from Canada concluded after two days of campaigning in the province. The Liberal prime minister's visit to Alberta marked a show of unity with the conservative premier Danielle Smith, who has been advocating for separation.

Premier Smith praised Carney for his efforts in improving relations between Ottawa and Edmonton, which had previously been strained due to disagreements over energy policies and carbon taxes. This change in dynamics is seen as a significant development, one that has occurred within the past 18 months, according to Smith.

Carney's personal connection to Alberta also played a role in his appeal. As someone who grew up in the province, he remains an Edmonton Oilers fan and used this familiarity to make a strong case against separation. His message resonated with the crowd, which erupted in applause when he spoke about reducing Canada's economic dependence on the United States.

Carney's warnings against external forces seeking to exploit Alberta's resources were particularly poignant, given the province's longstanding resentment towards federal energy policies. He reminded his audience that these policies have historically made Albertans feel like their resources do not belong to them.

The crowd gathered outside the Edmonton rally venue was met with a stark contrast of views on Alberta's potential independence from Canada. While some waved flags and held signs supporting separation, others like Deb Lee expressed frustration at the prospect of a referendum.

Lee, a retired Calgary resident, had already cast her vote in advance to remain part of Canada. She believes that calling a referendum is a "travesty given the small percentage of Albertans who support independence. This sentiment reflects growing concerns among those who want to maintain Alberta's place within the country.

The debate over independence has also created internal divisions within the United Conservative Party, with some separatists gaining influence due to their opposition to COVID-19 restrictions and conspiracy theories surrounding them. Former Premier Jason Kenney noted that this trend has contributed to the growing momentum of the independence movement within the party.

Alberta's independence debate continues as Mark Carney emphasizes cooperation between the province and federal government. Notably, he has addressed seven of nine contentious federal laws, according to a statement from Deputy Premier Smith. This move is seen as a significant concession by Carney in his efforts to persuade Albertans to remain part of Canada.

Tanya Clemens, an independence advocate, remains unconvinced by the agreements between Carney and Smith. She views their promises as conditional and lacking substance, labeling them pinky promises" that fall short of addressing Alberta's concerns. Meanwhile, federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has also urged Albertans to stay in Canada, emphasizing unity and cooperation.

The agreement on seven of nine contentious laws is a significant development in the debate, but not all issues have been resolved. Carney and Smith still disagree on questions related to immigration and provincial powers, which will be put to voters on Monday's ballot.

Fortune: https://fortune.com/2026/10/17/mark-carney-closing-argument-alberta-independence-canada/

The vote is not a direct call for secession but rather a first step toward exploring that possibility. If the majority of voters choose to proceed, the province would begin the legal process of separation from Canada. This move comes as tensions between Alberta and the federal government have been simmering for years over issues like energy policy and climate measures.

One of the main grievances of Albertans against the federal government is its imposition of a national carbon tax and other climate policies that they believe have harmed their oil industry. The province's leaders, including current Premier Danielle Smith, have long been at odds with the Trudeau administration on this issue. While some polls suggest that up to 23% of voters might support starting the separation process, Premier Smith has expressed reservations about this level of support.

The roots of Alberta separatism date back decades, but it was previously a fringe cause. However, recent events like the pandemic and the Freedom Convoy protests have contributed to growing discontent among Albertans with the federal government's policies and leadership style.

The latest wave of separatism sweeping Alberta has its roots in various factors, but one event that stands out is the 2022 Freedom Convoy protests against vaccine requirements for cross-border truckers. This movement quickly snowballed into a broader revolt against pandemic restrictions.

As people mobilized over their anger towards globalization, vaccines, and lockdowns, social media played a significant role in connecting previously isolated activists who could now find each other and organize. Kenney notes that this newfound connectivity helped the movement become more professional and structured, with groups building organizations, raising funds, and attracting experienced campaign operatives.

The Alberta independence movement has also drawn parallels with certain fringe ideologies, including support for Russian President Vladimir Putin or conspiracy theories surrounding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, it's essential to note that this is more representative of the activist base rather than the average Albertan voter who may be voicing their frustration with Ottawa.

Kenney emphasizes that while there are indeed individuals holding these views within the separatist movement, they do not represent the typical separation voter. These individuals are often frustrated Albertans seeking to send a message to the federal government about their discontent with current policies and leadership style.

The movement for Alberta's independence from Canada has drawn parallels with the MAGA movement in the US, with some separatist activists citing its "inspirational influence on their cause. According to Premier Jason Kenney, these individuals have attempted to infiltrate his own party, the United Conservative Party, with at least some success.

Kenney pointed out that many of those involved in the convoy and separatist movements are the same individuals, suggesting a common thread runs through both groups. This overlap has raised questions about the true motivations behind the push for Alberta's secession from Canada.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney's efforts to diversify Alberta's energy exports have earned him significant support among conservative voters in the province. His backing of a proposed pipeline to the West Coast and his opposition to US President Donald Trump's trade war have resonated with Albertans who feel their concerns are being heard by the federal government.

Despite this, separatist leaders acknowledge that they face an uphill battle, with every major politician in Alberta and Canada opposing their cause. A significant turnout of over 30% in the upcoming vote would be seen as a success, although it falls well short of the majority needed to achieve independence.

Alberta's separatist movement has been taking its campaign to new heights by engaging directly with the US government, seeking to establish ties that could benefit an independent Alberta.

Separatists have met with US State Department officials on multiple occasions, presenting a document outlining what an independent Alberta could offer the United States. The meetings have also discussed potential opportunities for cooperation and trade, including the possibility of building an oil pipeline through the US to the Pacific Ocean.

The outreach efforts by separatist leaders have been met with skepticism by some in Canada, particularly by Premier Jason Kenney, who has dismissed the initiative as bonkers. He argues that those involved in the meetings lack a democratic mandate and are discussing matters that are not within their authority.

Despite this criticism, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has expressed support for Alberta's separatist movement, describing it as a natural partner for the United States. This endorsement has been seen by some as an attempt to curry favor with potential allies in the event of Alberta's independence from Canada.

Separatist leaders see their efforts as a way to give Alberta more leverage in dealing with Ottawa, even if they fall short of achieving full independence through the upcoming vote.

The separatist movement in Alberta has been gaining momentum, with proponents arguing that it will give the province more bargaining power in negotiations with Ottawa. According to Wilson, a key figure in the movement, accepting substantial structural changes" to Alberta's relationship with Canada would be a viable alternative to full independence.

Premier Kenney notes that even if the separatist party fails to achieve independence, low turnout and significant support could still embolden the movement. He believes that 10% to 20% of Albertans supporting separation is an unprecedented level of backing for the cause.

The separatist momentum in Alberta comes as Quebec voters have also returned a pro-independence party to power, although the province's leader has stated that he will not hold a referendum while Donald Trump remains U.S. president.

Fortune: https://fortune.com/2026/10/17/alberta-canada-separation-referendum-oil-reserves-crude-exports-us-maga-trump-mark-carney/

Carney made his appeal at a pro-Canada rally in Edmonton, where he emphasized that the timing of the vote is particularly critical. With the US threatening to make Canada the 51st state and President Donald Trump waging a trade war, Carney warned that Alberta's independence could exacerbate these challenges for both provinces.

The Prime Minister stressed that turnout will be crucial in determining the outcome of the referendum, urging voters not to take the result for granted. He also cautioned against complacency, warning that a vote for separation would have far-reaching and unpredictable consequences for Albertans and Canadians alike.

Carney's remarks come as Alberta prepares to go to the polls on what promises to be a highly contentious issue. The Prime Minister is determined to persuade voters of the potential risks associated with separating from Canada, in a bid to sway public opinion ahead of the referendum.

Monday's vote in Alberta is not a direct referendum on independence from Canada. Instead, it will determine whether the province should remain part of Canada or instruct the government to begin exploring the possibility of separation through a future referendum.

In his final appeal against separation, Carney has been emphasizing the potential risks associated with breaking away from Canada. This comes after two days of campaigning against Alberta's independence, during which he joined forces with Conservative Premier Danielle Smith in an effort to sway public opinion ahead of the vote.

Smith praised Carney for improving relations between Ottawa and Edmonton, noting that his efforts have led to a significant shift in their working relationship over the past 18 months. This change is seen as a positive development, particularly among those who had previously clashed with his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, on issues like carbon taxes and energy policies.

Carney's message of unity has resonated with many Albertans, including Smith herself, who acknowledged that Carney remains an Edmonton Oilers fan despite having grown up in the province.

Alberta's longstanding resentment towards federal energy policies has been a long-standing issue that Carney is well aware of. He recalled growing up and feeling like Ottawa didn't consider Alberta's resources as its own, leading to widespread discontent among residents.

Carney has strong ties to the province, having grown up there and received his education in Edmonton. He credits the city and province with giving him everything he values: family, education, and a sense of community that is deeply rooted. This personal connection has likely influenced his appeals against Alberta separation.

Outside the rally venue where Carney was speaking, supporters of independence were gathered, waving flags and holding signs that criticized Carney's stance on the issue. One sign in particular caught attention, reading "Say no to Carney's new world order" - a clear indication of the strong emotions involved.

Premier Smith has come under pressure for calling the referendum despite her own opposition to separation. A recent poll showed that 22% of Albertans support leaving Canada, a figure that she believes is still too high. This decision has put her at odds with some in her party who are pushing for independence.

The debate over Alberta's place within Canada continues to be contentious, with opinions sharply divided on the issue. Some residents like Deb Lee are vocal about their opposition to separation, seeing it as a divisive and unnecessary step that will only cause harm to the province and country as a whole.

The agreement between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has addressed most of the federal laws that were opposed by the province. However, several issues remain unresolved, including nine questions on immigration and provincial powers that will be put to a vote in Monday's referendum.

Independence advocates have dismissed the agreements as weak and conditional, with some viewing them as mere "pinky promises". Federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has also urged Albertans to stay within Canada, emphasizing the importance of unity. He called on voters not to abandon their fellow Canadians, but rather stand together in solidarity.

The referendum will ultimately decide whether Alberta remains part of Canada or becomes an independent province. The unresolved issues between Carney and Smith highlight the complexity and depth of the disagreements that still need to be addressed.

ABC News International: https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/canadas-carney-makes-final-appeal-alberta-separation-ahead-137334494

Carney made these claims at a pro-Canada rally held in Calgary, where residents are set to vote on whether Alberta should begin proceedings for separation from Canada.

The province of Alberta is rich in oil and has been vocal about its dissatisfaction with the Canadian government, leading to a push for independence. The vote will determine if this process can legally commence.

This warning comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Ottawa, as the two nations engage in a trade war.

The upcoming vote in Alberta on Monday has sparked concerns about its implications for the province's relationship with the federal government.

Albertans have long been dissatisfied with Ottawa's handling of issues such as immigration, federal power, and oil industry management, contributing to a growing sense of disenfranchisement. These grievances have been fueled by perceived neglect of Alberta's interests, including the control over its vast natural resources.

Carney acknowledged that these feelings are genuine, stating that Ottawa has made Albertans feel like their resources do not belong to them. However, he cautioned against using the vote as a means of sending a message to the federal government.

This warning comes amid ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States.

Canada's separatist movement has been gaining momentum in recent years, particularly in Alberta where a referendum on independence is set to take place. Mitch Sylvestre, head of the Alberta Prosperity Project, claims that US interests do not currently play a role in Alberta's affairs.

However, this assertion seems at odds with reports of close ties between separatist leaders and US officials. The State Department has reportedly hosted meetings with Alberta Prosperity Project representatives, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has described Alberta as a "natural partner" for the United States.

Despite these connections, Sylvestre insists that there is no animosity towards America in Alberta, suggesting that trade between the province and the world's largest economy could continue even after independence.

DW English: https://www.dw.com/en/carney-says-us-trying-to-break-canada-amid-vote-for-alberta-independence-referendum/a-79675652?maca=en-rss-en-world-4025-rdf

In a message to Canadians marking Thanksgiving, Carney acknowledged the significance of the upcoming referendum on October 19, which will ask Albertans whether they want to remain part of Canada or pursue independence. The Prime Minister warned that separation would initiate a complex and unpredictable process at an inopportune time for the nation.

Carney's comments come as Alberta prepares to hold its own Thanksgiving celebrations, set apart from those in other parts of Canada which take place in October. The Prime Minister noted the unique timing of this year's holiday festivities, coinciding with the province's referendum on separation.

The October 19 vote marks a pivotal moment for Alberta and its relationship with the rest of Canada, as residents consider whether to remain part of the country or begin the process of holding a formal referendum on secession.

The independence movement in Alberta has been gaining momentum over the years, with some of its leaders emerging from the 2022 "Freedom Convoy protests against COVID-19 vaccine mandates and pandemic restrictions.

The vote on October 19 is taking place amidst strained relations between Canada and the United States, which have been exacerbated by US President Donald Trump's trade war and threats to Canada's sovereignty. In fact, Trump has repeatedly mentioned making Canada the 51st US state, further fueling tensions.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who called for the vote, is in favor of remaining part of Canada. However, she expressed concern about recent polling that showed around 22% support for separation, which she found still too high". This level of support has prompted some leaders to urge Albertans to back a path towards a separation referendum.

Carney pointed out that Alberta's oil industry can benefit from its partnership with the rest of Canada. He cited the proposed West Coast pipeline as an example of what the province can achieve within Canada, which is intended to open new markets and help diversify Canada's oil exports beyond the US.

The Canadian Prime Minister emphasized the importance of unity as Alberta approaches a potential referendum on separation. He pointed out that major projects such as new housing developments and high-speed rail initiatives are underway, but division among provinces would hinder their progress.

According to Carney, Canada's ability to achieve these ambitious projects relies on its provinces being united. He warned that building large-scale infrastructure is challenging when there are divisions within the country, likening it to trying to construct a massive structure over fault lines.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the potential risks and threats facing Canada, including economic, security, and social challenges. He argued that by standing together, Canadians can better address these issues and protect their way of life, underscoring the value of unity in overcoming common challenges.

ABC News International: https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/canadian-prime-minister-carney-makes-case-canadian-unity-137206883