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Alberta Premier Smith Advocates for Energy Exports and Drug Law Reforms in Washington
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is heading to Washington, D.C. this week with other provincial leaders to engage U.S. lawmakers and industry representatives amidst ongoing discussions about tariff threats affecting trade relations. This visit aims to stress the imperative of Alberta’s energy sector in supporting both Canadian and American economies.
In a statement released on Monday, Smith emphasized her intention to adopt a “Team Canada” strategy, aimed at illustrating to American stakeholders the potential consequences of tariffs on workers and businesses on both sides of the border. She seeks to reaffirm the vital position that Alberta’s energy exports hold in fostering U.S. economic interests.
Concurrently, Smith has expressed her concerns regarding what she perceives as insufficient measures taken by the federal government to combat drug trafficking, an issue highlighted frequently by U.S. President Donald Trump. Smith criticized Ottawa for being “soft on crime,” urging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s administration to either reinstate mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses or provide financial resources for Alberta to enhance its drug prosecution efforts.
Trump’s government has previously indicated intentions to implement substantial tariffs, including a sweeping 25 percent levy on all imports and a targeted 10 percent tariff on Canadian energy resources. In response, Trudeau has vowed that Canada would retaliate against any such tariffs with its own measures affecting up to $155 billion of American goods, covering a wide range of products from alcohol to natural resources.
Amid these tensions, Canada has made strategic commitments, such as allocating $1.3 billion for improved border security and drug enforcement initiatives. Measures include the appointment of a fentanyl czar, the designation of cartels as terrorist organizations, and the establishment of a collaborative Canada-U.S. task force dedicated to tackling organized crime.
Recently, Trump postponed the implementation of new tariffs until at least March 4, allowing time for negotiations towards what he termed a “final economic deal.” However, developments took a turn when Trump announced on Sunday that he would move forward with imposing 25 percent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports as of Monday.
In light of the evolving tariff situation, Smith has reiterated calls for the swift appointment of the fentanyl czar, although her office did not specifically comment on the recent steel and aluminum tariff threats. Earlier in January, Smith took a controversial stance by differing from fellow premiers and Trudeau, ruling out the possibility of counter-tariffs on Alberta’s oil and gas exports.
Alberta itself has committed $29 million to bolster its border security initiatives. This includes the establishment of a new sheriffs unit and the introduction of a designated two-kilometer zone where law enforcement can arrest individuals involved in illegal crossings or the trafficking of drugs and weapons without a warrant.
As discussions unfold in Washington, the potential implications for trade, energy policy, and cross-border law enforcement remain crucial to the ongoing dialogue between Alberta and the United States.
Source
globalnews.ca