Industry executives and senior politicians from around the world gathered in Calgary for the Global Energy Show, delivering a clear message: they want more Canadian energy. The event, Canada's largest energy conference, is taking place amid a historic energy supply shock and global trade uncertainty.
Nigeria Seeks Canadian Partnership
Ekperikpe Ekpo, Nigeria's minister of state for petroleum resources, highlighted immediate opportunities for collaboration on liquefied natural gas projects. "Nigeria invites Canada to partner with her at this very point in time to address global energy security; we need you now more than ever," Ekpo told the crowd. He emphasized the need to build infrastructure, deploy technology, and mobilize capital together.
Canada's Energy Superpower Status
Canada's Energy Minister Tim Hodgson touted the nation's position as a global energy superpower, calling Calgary his home away from home. He noted a heightened international presence at this year's show. "Canada has what the world wants, and we want to share it with our allies around the world," Hodgson said. He invited international partners to bring capital, technology, and ambition to Canada.
Recent major acquisitions in Alberta's oilpatch and big-ticket LNG agreements on the West Coast have revived optimism in the energy sector, which faced challenges over the past decade.
North American Stability as a Selling Point
Jim Wright, chair of the Railroad Commission of Texas, emphasized that North American energy offers geopolitical stability. "When you talk about the United States and Canada, that stability, I think, is what is attracting people," Wright said during a panel. He described it as a "shining star" for the rest of the world.
Hodgson and Prime Minister Mark Carney have been marketing Canadian energy during visits to Europe and Asia, aiming to convince trading partners that Western Canada provides a stable supply of oil and gas, free from conflict. The strong turnout at the Global Energy Show—with thousands expected at the BMO Centre—indicates mutual interest, as attendees network and hear from top executives and influential officials.
