MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright Garth Rowswell and MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat Justin Wright are heading to Juneau as part of the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region’s (PNWER) 2026 Capital Visits. Strengthening the province’s state-level relationships is a key priority for Alberta’s government.

The visit will provide MLAs Rowswell and Wright with a platform to engage with Alaska’s decision makers and legislators to advance Alberta’s priorities in the United States, including in agricultural trade, energy collaboration, economic corridor development and the unimpeded movement of citizens, services and goods across our borders.

Events and meetings will also bring together state leadership from across the entire Pacific Northwest region, including academia and corporate leaders, to share information, build consensus and promote common interests impacting this important trade corridor.

“When it comes to the Pacific Northwest, Alaska is an important partner for Alberta. I look forward to engaging with Alaska’s state leaders to strengthen practical partnerships in energy, agriculture, transportation and trade. These relationships contribute directly to the economic well-being of both Alberta and of states across the Pacific Northwest.”

Garth Rowswell, MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright

“Energy security is a priority for legislators across the Pacific Northwest. Alberta offers reliable supply, strong environmental performance and world-leading innovation. Partnering with Alaska lets us advance shared economic and energy goals that strengthen the region as a whole.”

Justin Wright, MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

PNWER is a non-partisan, public/private partnership that was established in 1991 to advance the economic well-being, quality of life and common interests of its 10 member jurisdictions, which include the states of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Washington, the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan, and the Yukon and Northwest Territories.

PNWER is organizing four capital visits this year, with Juneau, Alaska being its first stop.

Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.

Quick facts

  • The Pacific Northwest is an important trade region for Alberta. In 2024, bilateral trade between Alberta and the PNWER U.S. member states totalled $21 billion.
    • In 2024, bilateral trade between Alberta and Alaska alone totalled more than $775 million with the majority related to energy, machinery, and aircraft and aircraft parts.
  • Alberta is a key trade corridor in the Pacific Northwest region, linking the lower 48 states through Alberta to Yukon and Alaska.
  • Alberta will host the 2026 PNWER Annual Summit in Edmonton from July 19 to 23, welcoming elected officials and stakeholders from across the Pacific Northwest Economic Region to the province.

Itinerary for MLAs Rowswell and Wright*

Jan. 25
  • Travel to Juneau, AK.

Jan. 26 to 27
  • Meetings with U.S. legislators and officials as part of the PNWER 2026 Capital Visits.

Jan. 28
  • Travel to Alberta.

*Subject to change.

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