Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta is set to push for deeper economic ties with the United States as three provincial MLAs prepare to attend the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) 50th annual summit in Boston, Massachusetts, from Aug. 2 to 7.
MLAs Angela Pitt (Airdrie-East), Glenn Van Dijken (Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock), and Chelsae Petrovic (Livingstone-Macleod) will represent Alberta at the summit, which brings together lawmakers and government leaders from across the U.S. and beyond. Their mission: to advocate for barrier-free trade, promote Alberta as a secure energy and agriculture partner, and strengthen cross-border economic relations.
Alberta’s Economic Priorities
Over the course of the summit, the MLAs will attend policy sessions, roundtables, and networking events with influential U.S. legislators. Key priorities will include:
- Advocating for cross-border pipelines to increase Alberta’s energy exports.
- Expanding access for Alberta’s farmers, ranchers, and agri-processors to U.S. markets.
- Reinforcing Alberta’s role as a leading supplier of food and energy to North America.
- Building long-term partnerships that promote mutual trade and investment growth.
“It is vitally important that Alberta is well-represented in discussions that could shape our province’s future – especially as Canada works to secure a new economic deal with the U.S. I will stress the benefits of enhancing two-way trade that builds bridges to prosperity,” said Angela Pitt, MLA for Airdrie-East.
Glenn Van Dijken, MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock, added: “Promoting increased access to U.S. markets for Alberta’s agricultural producers will be at the top of my agenda. Our farmers put top-quality food on American tables, and I will use this opportunity to reinforce Alberta’s role in advancing food security across North America.”
Chelsae Petrovic, MLA for Livingstone-Macleod, emphasized the importance of high-level advocacy: “With so many influential American legislators attending, it’s crucial that Alberta is in the room to ensure our priorities are heard and supported.”
Alberta-U.S. Trade Snapshot
- The U.S. is Alberta’s largest trading partner, with exports reaching C$162.1 billion in 2024, making up 88.7% of the province’s total exports.
- Energy products dominated exports, accounting for $133.4 billion (82.3%).
- Other major exports included plastics ($4.3B), machinery ($3.4B), meat ($3B), organic chemicals ($2.1B), and forestry products ($2B).
- Agricultural exports to the U.S. were valued at $9.2 billion in 2024, up 4% from the previous year.
About the NCSL
Founded in 1975, the National Conference of State Legislators brings together lawmakers from all 50 U.S. states, territories, and the District of Columbia to collaborate on policy and share best practices. Alberta became an affiliate member of NCSL and joined its International Advisory Council in 2024, further strengthening its presence at the summit.
The MLAs’ itinerary includes NCSL-led meetings, an agriculture task force session, and hosting a reception for key U.S. decision-makers. Mission expenses will be publicly disclosed on Alberta’s travel and expense page.
