Alberta Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade Matt Jones says Alberta's potential can overcome trade problems with the U.S. — and there are opportunities in challenges.
President Donald Trump has threatened to impost a 25% tariff on Canadian goods as soon as February 1. He is displeased with Canada's alleged border security problems and has threatened to annex Canada.
The Western Standard asked Jones if he is worried about the situation.
"Long term, Alberta is going to do very well," he said. "And I actually believe Canada will do very well."
Jones said Alberta has what the world needs — energy and food. He said many countries are trying to address energy security.
Alberta has some of the largest oil and gas reserves on earth.
Jones said the situation with Trump will necessitate another look at Canada's trade infrastructure and the diversification of trading partners.
"I think we can come out of this situation stronger, either with the United States — a stronger trading parter to the United States, or just a stronger trading partner to the globe," he said.
The Western Standard asked Jones about Alberta doing business with Manitoba's NDP government and the potential to increase activity at the Port of Churchill.
He said he looks beyond political stripe when thinking about removing barriers to interprovincial trade.
Is the pressure exerted by President Donald Trump actually doing Canada a favour in terms of shoring-up shortcomings? asked the Western Standard.
"There are opportunities in challenging situations to build and strengthen the economy, and that doesn't mean we trade less with the United States," said Jones.
"I actually think we will come out of this trading more with the United States than ever before because, really, it's pretty difficult to replace about 60% of your oil imports."
Jones added, "And where else in the world would you want to source your energy, both from a from a security perspective, but also an affordability perspective?"
"So, I think this is an opportunity. This is the catalyst for Canada to become a stronger partner."
