Federal Finance Minister says Alberta is ‘front and centre’ in Canada’s growth amid trade war

Comments come during Edmonton Chamber of Commerce event, where trade and the province's relationship with Ottawa were top of mind

Alberta is at the forefront when it comes to growth in Canada, Federal Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said Wednesday

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At an event hosted by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, Champagne boasted of Canada’s position amid the ongoing trade conflict by saying the country is in a “position of strength.” He said unity is the key at a time of “great uncertainty,” ahead of the fall referendum.

“Alberta is front and centre in the growth of our nation. This is a generational opportunity that we have. The world is looking at Canada to be the energy partner of choice,” Champagne said to reporters.

“The voice of Alberta, the role of Alberta in our collective journey as a nation, has never been stronger.”

Late Tuesday evening, United States President Donald Trump unveiled a series of executive orders banning some Canadian goods from being imported to the U.S., including some alcoholic beverages, dairy products and motorcycles. The orders also add more products to the list of Canadian exports now hit with 50 per cent tariffs.