Alberta MLAs head to Boston to promote trade ties with U.S.

A delegation of Alberta MLAs is in Boston this week, aiming to strengthen trade relations and promote barrier-free commerce between Alberta and the United States.

MLAs Glenn van Dijken, Angela Pitt, and Chelsae Petrovic are representing the province at the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL), a major gathering of American lawmakers focused on policy discussions and cross-border collaboration.

According to the Alberta government, the trio is emphasizing Alberta’s role as a dependable supplier of energy and agricultural products, while advocating for the reduction of trade barriers.

“With so many influential American legislators attending the NCSL, it’s vital that Alberta has a strong voice at the table,” van Dijken said in a statement.

The U.S. remains Alberta’s largest trading partner, accounting for over $162 billion in exports last year—more than $133 billion of which came from energy products alone.

The MLAs departed for Boston on August 2 and are scheduled to return August 7. During their time at the summit, they will attend a range of policy sessions, meetings, and networking events.

Their trip comes amid broader Canada-U.S. trade tensions. However, optimism remains high following recent talks in Washington. Dominic LeBlanc, the federal minister responsible for Canada-U.S. trade, described the meetings as “cordial and constructive” during a recent appearance on a U.S. talk show, expressing hope that a resolution can be reached.