Canada demands respect from the U.S.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Ottawa expects Washington to respect the country's sovereignty in response to reports of secret meetings between U.S. officials and activists advocating for the independence of Alberta province.

"Our relations with the U.S. should be based on mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity," Carney said. Media reports indicate the meeting with the group of activists was held privately and did not occur through official diplomatic channels.

Context

Alberta is known for its oil resources, and recent independence protests have drawn international attention.