SASKATOON — Prime Minister Mark Carney and Canada’s premiers say they are ready to move forward with a stronger economy and push nation-building projects from blueprints to shovels in the ground.Meeting in Saskatoon, the first First Ministers Meeting in Saskatchewan in more than 40 years, the leaders issued a statement placing economic growth, major infrastructure, community safety, and indigenous partnerships at the top of their agenda.Carney told reporters Canada cannot afford years-long federal reviews that stall pipelines, ports, or power lines. Carney said Ottawa will deliver federal assessment decisions within two years for “nation-building projects” such as pipelines.Premiers welcomed the pledge and endorsed a “one project, one review” approach that merges federal, provincial, and territorial assessments, while stopping duplication between different levels of government. .They all promised to slash permitting, red tape, and involve indigenous communities early in the process so benefits flow to people who live closest to resource corridors.The statement lists five tests for projects of national interest.They must boost Canada’s autonomy and security, carry undeniable economic benefits, have a strong chance of completion, be prioritized by indigenous leaders, and support “clean growth.”Energy dominated the talks. Leaders said pipelines carrying decarbonized oil and gas, lower carbon electricity transmission lines, and critical minerals corridors all meet the five new tests. .They argued such projects would strengthen allied supply chains and help Canada hit net-zero by 2050.Carney promised to pass the One Canadian Economy bill, which will sweep away remaining interprovincial trade barriers, unlock labour mobility, and free up goods and services trapped at provincial borders. A federal study estimates removing those barriers could add up to $80 billion a year in GDP.The premiers want the Committee on Internal Trade to complete a mutual recognition deal for consumer goods by December 2025, broaden a trucking pilot that speeds freight across provinces, and set a 30 day national standard for approving professional credentials so workers can fill jobs fast.The leaders also pledged to speak with one voice abroad. .They want to scrap long standing US duties on softwood lumber, lift Chinese tariffs on agriculture and seafood, and widen market access for Canadian exporters.Northern and Arctic security received its own spotlight. First ministers backed dual-use roads, ports, and energy links that serve local residents and bolster Canada’s defence. Each project must include indigenous equity stakes, which Carney called “generational wealth” for remote communities. .Public safety was another concern. Justice and public safety ministers will draft an action plan targeting bail reform, repeat violent offenders, and the fentanyl trade, all aimed at safer streets and faster processing through the courts system.With wildfires still raging across the West, leaders paused to thank fire crews and promised continued support for provinces, territories, and indigenous communities affected.They wrapped up by pledging to meet regularly to keep the plan on track.
