Canadians want ‘energy security,’ Champagne says amidst pipeline talk

Canadians understand that energy security, economic security and national security are linked, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said Wednesday when asked about Ottawa’s proposed energy agreement with Alberta.

“Canada can be an energy superpower, both in conventional and clean energy. But I would let the major project office do its work. That’s why they’re there. There’s well-established process,” Champagne said, referring to the new federal entity overseeing major infrastructure projects.

“I think that Canadians understand better now than ever the nexus between energy security, economic security, national security. I think we can do that as a nation in consultation, respecting jurisdiction, and at the same time looking at what’s in the best interest of Canada,” he said.

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