Quebec premier boycotts Carney's summit with the EU
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the separatist premier of Canada's Quebec province, is boycotting the Canada–EU summit, saying Ottawa shows him a lack of respect. His government wants a bigger role in the province's ties with the EU.
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the premier of Canada's Quebec province and a supporter of its separation from Canada, is boycotting a summit between Canada and the European Union that is linked to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Politico Europe reports that the politician had also threatened to play the role of spoiler at the event.
Complaints against Ottawa
Plamondon alleges a "serious lack of respect" from the federal government in Ottawa. In his words, Ottawa would rather he "serve shrimp cocktail" at a function than stage one himself.
Quebec's push for a bigger role
His new separatist government wants a larger part in relations with the EU. The province is staking a claim in areas such as natural resources. The premier, according to the outlet, also envisages a longer-term push for independence.
The boycott points to tension between the provincial leadership and the federal government at a time when Canada is engaging with the EU. The source gives no details on the summit's date, venue or agenda, so those questions remain open.
Politico Europe published several pieces on the matter on October 26 and 27. They indicate that Quebec's new government is trying to strengthen its presence on the international stage rather than leave external relations solely to the federal level.
