Alberta MLAs push for U.S. trade at Boston conference

A team of Alberta MLAs are headed south to engage in trade talks with lawmakers at a conference in Boston.

A team of Alberta MLAs is in Boston this week to advocate for barrier-free trade with the United States.

A pair of MLAs, Glenn van Dijken and Chelsae Petrovic, will be attending the National Conference of State Legislators, a large summit where lawmakers from across the U.S. discuss policy and partnerships.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

According to the province, they’re pushing for barrier-free trade with our American neighbours, highlighting Alberta as a reliable source for energy and agriculture.

“Given the sheer number of influential American legislators attending the NCSL, it’s crucial to make sure Alberta is well represented in the room,” said van Dijken in a statement.

The U.S. is Alberta’s biggest trading partner, receiving more than $162 billion in exports last year. Energy products accounted for about $133.4 billion.

The MLAs left for Boston on Aug. 2 and will return on Aug 7. Their schedules show them participating in a series of policy sessions, meetings and networking events.

The trip south of the border comes amid the larger trade dispute between Canada and the U.S.

While speaking on a U.S. talk show over the weekend, Dominic Leblanc, Canada’s minister responsible for Canada-U.S. trade, said recent meetings in Washington were cordial and constructive.

He added that he remains optimistic a deal can be done.