The vast majority of Alberta voters have rejected a proposal that could have put the oil-rich province on a path toward independence from Canada, the Associated Press reported.
Although the vote count is still ongoing, about 76% of voters have rejected a move toward independence from Canada. Nearly a quarter supported beginning the process, with separatist leaders arguing that the federal government has not treated the province fairly.
Technically, the referendum was not an independence vote. Initiated by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith amid separatist pressure, the plebiscite aimed to decide whether the province should start moving in that direction. Approval would have set the stage for another referendum on separation.
«Albertans made a clear choice. They chose unity, to build together, and to take care of each other. Above all, Albertans chose Canada,» Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said.
Raised in Alberta, Carney highlighted that the federal government would continue efforts to diversify trade, develop major infrastructure projects and expand Canada’s role as a global energy producer.
Alberta is Canada’s largest oil-producing province and holds some of the world’s biggest proven oil reserves. Separatist movements have existed in the province for decades, fueled in part by dissatisfaction with the federal government. Furthermore, Alberta is not the only Canadian province with a history of separatist sentiment.
That said, amid trade tensions with the neighboring U.S. and comments from U.S. President Donald Trump about making Canada the 51st U.S. state, national unity has received renewed attention.