Commentary
Smith is set to attend an inauguration event for President-elect Donald Trump in Washington this January and has announced that Alberta will take on the responsibility of patrolling the border with Montana. This proactive approach by Smith in fostering a relationship with the United States could shield Alberta from potential fallout from a looming trade war and tariffs, but it may also strain Canada’s national unity.
The Trudeau government is taking Trump’s threat of imposing 25 percent tariffs seriously. A hurried first ministers’ meeting was held to discuss a unified national response to the threatened tariffs, but no cohesive plan emerged. Canadian leaders recognize the urgency of addressing this challenge, as a 25 percent tariff on Canadian exports could plunge the nation into a severe recession. Every province relies on trade with the US.
The border between Alberta and Montana stretches 300 kilometers across remote areas, lightly patrolled with only a barbed wire fence in some sections. While the ease of crossing the border may tempt illegal migration and smuggling, the extent of illegal crossings remains uncertain. There is a perception that Canada serves as a gateway for illegal immigrants and drug smuggling, which is driving Trump’s tariff threats. Canada must demonstrate border security measures to avoid a trade war.
Over 98 percent of Canadian crude oil exports and 45 percent of natural gas exports go to the US, with most coming from Alberta. Tariffs would have a devastating impact on the province.
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The significance of a province taking on the responsibility of international border patrols is substantial. Handling international border security is typically a federal role, so assuming it at the provincial level signifies a bold move toward provincial autonomy. Even during Quebec’s separatist movement peak, such a step was never taken.
Despite personal tensions between Justin Trudeau and Donald Trump, the federal government must navigate the incoming president’s demands. Canada must act swiftly to address border concerns and persuade President-elect Trump that avoiding tariffs on Canadian goods is in America’s best interest. Failure to do so while Alberta secures an exemption for oil and gas could severely impact Canada’s economy and national unity.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
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