On June 2, 2025, Canada’s First Ministers – the Prime Minister and provincial and territorial Premiers – gathered in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, for a crucial meeting centred on fast tracking major infrastructure projects.
Prime Minister Mark Carney reinforced his commitment to streamlining project approvals, aiming for federal decisions within two years for projects deemed in the national interest which fit the following criteria:
- Strengthen Canada’s autonomy, resilience, and security.
- Offer undeniable benefits to Canada and support economic growth.
- Have a high likelihood of successful execution.
- Are a high priority for Indigenous leaders.
- Have clean growth potential, such as the use of clean technologies and sustainable practices.
The primary focus of the meeting was on expediting nation-building infrastructure projects, with the Premier’s and territorial leaders bringing forward specific projects for consideration.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith had said that if a list of projects to fast track does not include a new pipeline, it would send a bad message to Albertans, many of whom are currently feeling frustrated and alienated. Premier Smith stated that oil is “by far” Canada’s most valuable export and that a bitumen pipeline to British Columbia’s northern coast would be of tremendous value to Canada.
Although no official project list was released, potential energy and trade infrastructure initiatives such as Grays Bay Road and Port, Port of Churchill, Pathways Alliance, Northwest Coast Oil Pipeline, and Ring of Fire mineral development region in Northern Ontario were mentioned by the Prime Minister in media interviews.
The First Ministers also discussed the pressing issues of internal trade barriers, Arctic security, national defence spending, and bail and sentencing reforms to support public safety.
As the meeting wrapped up, the political leaders expressed optimism and unity, viewing this as a defining moment to unleash Canada’s potential. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and other Premiers said they are encouraged by Prime Minister Carney’s willingness to refer to Canada as an “energy superpower” and the significant shift in tone from his predecessor Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
With federal legislation expected by the end of June to expedite major projects, this First Ministers’ meeting signals a new era of collaboration for Canada’s growth and prosperity.
Learn more here: Official communique: https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/news/statements/2025/06/02/first-ministers-statement-building-strong-canadian-economy-and-advancing-major-projects