Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper publicly distanced himself from a petition advocating for Alberta’s secession from Canada, making the statement during a rare public appearance with Jean Chrétien.
The two former leaders were engaged in a discussion at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in Ottawa, tackling weighty topics like Arctic sovereignty and the surge in nationalist sentiment around the globe.
Chrétien, reflecting on the 1995 Quebec referendum, confessed his bewilderment regarding the current separatist undercurrents in Alberta, prompting Harper’s concise denial of signing the petition.
When Chrétien inquired if any members of the Conservative party had endorsed the initiative, Harper responded he had been informed that was not the case, a statement delivered with notable brevity.
Chrétien, a veteran of national unity debates, offered a reassuring sentiment: “Canada will remain united, don’t worry.” His words carried the weight of experience and a firm belief in the country’s resilience.
Harper suggested a surprising common ground emerging from the disruptive policies of former U.S. President Donald Trump, noting the unifying effect on those who might otherwise seek separation.
He recounted a recent conversation with a prominent Quebec separatist, revealing the individual quietly conceded that Trump’s actions underscored the importance of national cohesion, a sentiment expressed in hushed tones.
The specter of Trump loomed large in their discussion, with Harper highlighting the former president’s repeated, provocative suggestions about annexing Canada – referring to it as the “51st state” and Canadian leaders as “governors.”
Chrétien, meanwhile, offered a broader geopolitical assessment, boldly declaring that the world is witnessing the “end of the American empire,” a shift he characterized as inevitable and accelerating.
Despite this anticipated decline in American dominance, Chrétien expressed confidence in Canada’s position, asserting the nation is well-prepared to navigate the changing global landscape.
The conversation unfolded against a backdrop of rising separatist movements, not only in Alberta, where some members of the governing party are reportedly supporting a separation vote, but also a potential resurgence of separatist sentiment in Quebec.
Harper’s appearance in Ottawa coincided with the unveiling of his official portrait on Parliament Hill and the commemoration of two decades since the Conservative party first achieved federal power.
The Royal Canadian Geographical Society recognized Harper’s distinguished career in public service with its highest honour, a gold medal, acknowledging his long-standing contributions to the nation.
