Alberta and Quebec premiers to discuss energy corridor and provincial autonomy

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is set to meet Quebec Premier Christine Frechette in Quebec City this week to discuss energy, trade, investment and provincial autonomy. The talks come as Alberta prepares for an October referendum that will include a question on whether the province should begin the legal process toward possible separation from Canada. Smith said an independent Alberta could face major transition costs and disruptions to trade if it pursued that path. Energy cooperation is expected to be a central issue, including the idea of an eastwest corridor and whether Quebec could expand its own natural gas development. Smith said both provinces share an interest in strengthening their ability to make decisions independently, while still remaining in Canada.