Diversification...the new relationship between Canadian provinces and the world

Canada will relinquish $630-billion in additional GDP over the next 25 years as is estimated by the Canadian Energy Research Institute. Does shipping lower value products for other countries to gain financially continue to make sense for Canada? In Alberta, the future of oil producers and pipeline companies appears to be working in tandem with our federal and provincial governments. Together, we need to use every available asset we have to diversify.


Making access to other world markets like Asia via a West Coast pipeline must be a national priority. Access to our East Coast pipeline is also an important part of the diversification of our resources. Former Premier Lougheed has expressed support of processing more of our national raw products which he believes offers more return to the Canadian economy. This is why Premier Redford's suggestion of the government investing in a kick start of upgrades to CNRL and Northwest might make sense for Alberta. The risk would be low.  We know that bitumen is readily available, even over the long term, and unlike companies, the government can make the financial commitment to the anticipated volumes. Moreover, bitumen from more than one source is then possible and increases the likelihood of return.
So, it would seem that in light of the seemingly stalled Keystone XL Pipeline, Mr. Lougheed's point of view is very apropos. Let's throw in these ideas too: Capitalizing on existing Canadian refineries and refitting lines as well as building new lines to send and process raw bitumen into synthetic crude oil.

While Canada and the US will always be friends, it is clear that Canada is at the threshold of making a huge impact in the world. Alberta cannot make this happen alone but rather, as part of a country that is unified in using her resources effectively and in concert. If we can achieve national unity on this issue (and yes, agree that Kyoto is not for us), we can become the economic force that leads the world fecund in resources, and also, in ways of responsible reduction of emissions. This means we set the tone and agenda in Durban negotiations that can very well place us in a newly empowered position on the world stage as a country abundant in resource and highly ethical in guarding it's environment.

A respectful process is critical. Developing policies and concurrently honouring the roots of our aboriginal people, environmental groups and all stakeholders is a challenge that we must take on. We are a country resplendent in richness that can ensure high quality of life not only for ourselves and our children but, perhaps around the world.