According to a report by the Canadian news agency and the Associated Press on October 15, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a warning in Calgary, Alberta, stating that external forces were attempting to divide Canada. He called on local voters to vote in favor of staying in Canada during the upcoming referendum.
Khan attended a rally called "Eternal Canadians" that day. The Office of the Governor General of Canada estimated that about 5,000 people participated.
This referendum happened at the worst possible time. Kane stated that the world was becoming more dangerous and fractured, with some foreign powers attempting to break up Canada so as to claim it for themselves.
In his speech, Cani did not directly mention the United States. However, in an interview with Canadian Global News Network earlier that day, he made it clear that Canada’s national security agencies are monitoring potential foreign interventions.
Alberta is scheduled to hold a non-binding referendum on October 19 to decide whether to initiate the legal procedures required for a formal separation referendum, rather than deciding on independence directly.
Khan warned voters not to think that they can use voting as a way to pressure the federal government. “This is not poker. Voting against Canada is a dangerous bluff that will lead to years of severe division and great uncertainty.”
Alberta is an important energy-producing region in Canada. For a long time, some local residents have been dissatisfied with the federal government's energy policies and the distribution of resources benefits. According to Reuters, a poll shows that about 70% of local residents support staying in Canada, while about 25% support independence.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also opposes independence and has voted in advance to remain in Canada.
