Canada’s First Ministers Advance National Economic Reform, Trade Barrier Removal

Canada's First Ministers convened in Saskatoon for a historic meeting focused on accelerating major infrastructure projects, removing interprovincial trade barriers, and supporting economic growth to position Canada as a leading global energy superpower. Central to the discussions was the federal initiative One Canadian Economy, which aims to streamline project assessments with a two-year timeline, prioritize nation-building infrastructure, and emphasize Indigenous equity and participation in projects. Energy infrastructure, such as natural gas expansion and the Eastern Energy Partnership, was highlighted, with particular attention to Indigenous involvement as equity partners or developers. The premiers also committed to improving labour mobility, mutual recognition of credentials, and addressing public safety concerns, including bail and sentencing reforms and combating toxic drug supplies. Agreements to remove trade barriers between provinces, such as those signed by Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, support the broader goals of economic integration and growth. The meeting underscored a unified approach to tackling both immediate challenges like wildfires and long-term economic reform.