The key facts
- Carney said there are forces 'beyond our borders' seeking to break Canada apart
- The Alberta referendum will be held on Monday: the question of a second, binding referendum on separation
- The PM emphasized the importance of the Pacific Link pipeline for reducing dependence on the US
Warning about foreign forces
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Friday that forces outside the country are trying to break Canada apart on the eve of the referendum on Alberta's future, scheduled for Monday. Speaking at the Forever Canadian rally in Edmonton, he called the vote taking place 'at the worst possible moment.' 'The world is becoming more dangerous and divided. Open your eyes. There are those beyond our borders working to break us so they can then own us. Never, never,' Carney told supporters.
The essence of the referendum
The vote will ask whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or hold a second, binding referendum on the province's separation.
Acknowledging historical grievances
Carney acknowledged that in Canada's history, promises made between peoples have been broken repeatedly. 'When something is wrong, when something is unfair, we as Albertans, as Canadians, do not hide from it and do not walk away. We fix it together and become stronger,' he noted.
The energy agenda
Turning to the government's energy policy, Carney emphasized Alberta's central role in the country's economic development: 'Canada is building big again, and Alberta is at the very heart of it.' According to him, the Pacific Link pipeline will help develop energy resources and reduce dependence on the US: 'By building Pacific Link, we are unlocking our full energy potential. We are reducing our dependence on the United States.'
A call for unity and turnout
The Prime Minister urged Albertans to reject separation and support national unity: 'Now is the time to build, not to break. It is our turn to stand up for Canada.' He also stressed the importance of participating in the vote: 'Turnout will again decide this referendum, because you cannot vote in polls — only people can vote.'
