US Treasury Secretary Envisions Alberta as 'Natural Partner'

Sat Jan 24 2026 17:58:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Comments from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding Alberta separatism provoke mixed reactions amidst ongoing tensions between the US and Canada.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has labeled Alberta a \"natural partner\" for the US, referencing the province's rich natural resources amid a separatist movement seeking an independence referendum. His remarks faced pushback from Canadian politicians, highlighting the complexities of provincial and federal relations. Alberta leaders affirm their commitment to resource development, even as many Albertans seem to prefer remaining part of Canada, despite the separatist push.

US Treasury Secretary Envisions Alberta as 'Natural Partner'

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has weighed in on a separatist movement in Alberta, saying the western Canadian province is a natural partner for the US.

Alberta has a wealth of natural resources, but they won't let them build a pipeline to the Pacific, Bessent told an American right-wing commentator in an interview on Thursday.

I think we should let them come down into the US, and Alberta is a natural partner for the US. They have great resources. The Albertans are very independent people.

The top US official's comments come amid strained ties between US and Canada, and as signatures are being collected in the province seeking an independence referendum.

In comments to conservative host Jack Posobiec, Bessent went on to say there is a rumour that they may have a referendum on whether they want to stay in Canada or not.

A group in Alberta has until May to collect at least 178,000 signatures - or 10% of eligible voters - for a referendum campaign. Asked about Bessent's remarks on Friday, federal Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said he'd tell him thanks but no thanks, we will do our own things.

He said Canadians are able to develop our natural resources at home and pointed to a deal recently inked by Prime Minister Mark Carney with Alberta that opens the door for an oil pipeline to the Pacific.

A spokesperson for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith emphasized that while the province supports more pipeline capacity, the majority of its residents are not interested in becoming a US state.

Late last year, over 430,000 signatures were gathered for a petition in support of a united Canada against the separatist push, indicating a majority preference among Albertans to remain in Canada.

Although many supporters of separatism express the desire for independence from Canada, they do not necessarily aim to join the US. Mitch Sylvestre, who leads the referendum petition, noted the comment about Alberta as a natural partner aligns with the existing energy trade relationships.

As trade discussions between the US and Canada stall, the dialog surrounding Alberta's status raises questions about the future of North American relations.