Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): A delegation of Alberta legislators will travel to Salt Lake City, Utah, from July 6 to 11 to strengthen economic ties with western U.S. states and promote the province’s priorities in energy, transportation, defence and cross-border trade.
The visit is part of Alberta’s participation in the annual Council of State Governments (CSG) West conference, where elected representatives from western U.S. states and associate members gather to discuss regional policy, trade and infrastructure issues.
Representing Alberta at this year’s meeting are Tany Yao, MLA for Fort McMurray–Wood Buffalo and Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Northern Development; Ron Wiebe, MLA for Grande Prairie–Wapiti and Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health (North); and Scott Cyr, MLA for Bonnyville–Cold Lake–St. Paul and Parliamentary Secretary for Transportation and Strategic Development.
During the conference, the Alberta delegation is expected to meet with U.S. lawmakers, business leaders and government officials to discuss opportunities for expanding trade, encouraging investment and improving regional cooperation. Key discussions will focus on energy security, supply chain resilience, transportation infrastructure and Alberta’s growing defence and aerospace industries.
The MLAs will also participate in meetings of the CSG West Executive Committee, Westrends Board and Energy and Grid Committee, where they plan to advocate for policies that enhance economic collaboration between Alberta and western U.S. states.
Provincial officials say Alberta intends to highlight its position as a dependable supplier of energy and a growing destination for defence-related investment. The delegation will also emphasize the importance of efficient border crossings, modern transportation networks and cross-border pipeline infrastructure in supporting long-term economic growth.
According to the government, stronger partnerships with neighbouring U.S. jurisdictions are expected to create new business opportunities, support employment and reinforce supply chains that benefit industries on both sides of the Canada–U.S. border.
The Council of State Governments West includes legislators and policymakers from 13 western U.S. states, including California, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado and Arizona. Alberta and British Columbia participate as associate members alongside several U.S. Pacific territories, providing a platform for continued dialogue on issues affecting the western North American region.
