The new separatist government of Quebec sees this week's European Union and Canada summit in Montreal as the beginning of a broader diplomatic effort to participate in negotiations concerning its powers.
Emphasis on Quebec's Presence in Negotiations
The separatist party of Quebec, the Parti Québécois, has returned to power this month as part of a minority government and has promised to exert more control over Quebec affairs and ultimately hold another referendum on independence.
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Hélène Durocher, Quebec's representative in the European Union, said in an interview in Brussels: "Quebec must be present at the negotiating table, and Canada understands this well."
Quebec's Diplomatic Plans
Prime Minister Mark Carney will host Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, on Thursday and Friday. This summit has been described as a shift in relations between the two sides. Von der Leyen even suggested that Canada be considered an "associated member" of the European Union, a proposal that is quite unexpected for some member countries of this bloc.
Durocher added that Quebec is in discussions with the European Investment Bank and DG GROW, the industry department of the European Commission, about the bank's entry into Canada. This cooperation comes as Quebec has recently elected its new Premier, Paul Saint-Pierre Plamondon.
Challenges of Independence and Quebec's Future
Support for independence in Quebec is currently at its lowest level in three decades, with only about 29 percent of people supporting it in polls. However, the Parti Québécois is committed to doubling the number of its offices abroad.
The party has announced in its planning that the number of countries with a Quebec office will increase from 19 to 38, and if a referendum leads to a "yes" for independence, these offices will be transformed into embassies and consulates.
Durocher stated that the new government has not yet clarified its position on Europe, but if they decide to double their network, it is because they believe in this partnership.
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