Edmonton (National Times): In a significant diplomatic move aimed at bolstering North American energy dominance and forging new global partnerships, Alberta will send a high-profile delegation to Washington, DC, from June 2 to 7, 2025. The team, led by Premier Danielle Smith and including Minister of Energy and Minerals Brian Jean, Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf, along with Parliamentary Secretaries for Affordability and Utilities and Chantelle de Jonge, will highlight Alberta’s commitment to responsible energy development.
The delegation will participate in a series of events, such as the US Energy Streams 10th Washington Energy Forum, the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference, and the S&P Global Oil Sands Dialogue, where Alberta’s leaders will engage with industry innovators, technology experts, and US government officials. The mission is designed to reinforce Alberta’s position as a major global energy supplier and to pursue strategic partnerships to alleviate global energy poverty.
Premier Danielle Smith stressed the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States, stating,
“While Alberta seeks to enter new global markets, we know the US remains our largest trading partner, and through advocacy, this important relationship can and will be maintained. Alberta’s energy future is unstoppable and has a key role to play in helping the U.S. meet its growing energy needs in a secure and reliable way.”
Minister Brian Jean echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Alberta’s enhanced capabilities in energy and resource development. He noted,
“Alberta’s competitive electricity market and business-friendly environment make our province a destination of choice for investors and a leader in innovative technologies. I am proud to carry that message south of the border as we continue to build our energy future.”
Minister Nathan Neudorf added,
“Alberta is a global leader in responsible energy development. I look forward to working with our U.S. partners to advance new opportunities in our energy sector that will benefit communities on both sides of the border.”
The delegation’s itinerary is robust and includes travel to Washington, key panel discussions, bilateral meetings, and keynote addresses.
Highlights include:
- Premier Smith will travel on June 3, meet industry partners, deliver keynote speeches at the US Energy Streams Forum, and participate in bilateral meetings with U.S. legislators.
- Minister Jean will commence his trip on June 1, address the Washington DC Natural Gas Dialogue on June 2, and participate in discussions and receptions through June 7, including delivering a keynote at the Energy Council’s Conference.
- Minister Neudorf and Parliamentary Secretary de Jonge will focus on the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference, with de Jonge joining additional sessions from June 5 through 7.
This mission comes at a critical time as Alberta navigates complex geopolitical landscapes while expanding its global trade partnerships. The delegation’s activities are part of a broader strategy to implement Alberta’s Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan, promoting a business-friendly environment primed for investment and sustainable growth.
Trip expenses for elected officials and staff will be disclosed on the government’s travel and expense disclosure page. As Alberta continues to champion its extensive resource base, the delegation’s efforts in Washington, DC are set to underscore the province’s crucial role in shaping the future of energy on both national and international fronts.
