MLA for Leduc-Beaumont Brandon Lunty and MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat Justin Wright are heading to Oregon as part of the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region’s (PNWER) 2026 Capital Visits. The visit will reinforce the importance of strong economic ties between Alberta and U.S. states in driving economic growth on both sides of the border.

MLAs Lunty and Wright will engage with Oregon’s decision makers, legislators, academics and business leaders to advance Alberta’s U.S. priorities in agricultural trade, energy collaboration and economic corridor development.

They will also participate in events and meetings that bring together state leadership from across the Pacific Northwest economic region to share information, build consensus and promote common interests on a broad range of regional issues.

“Meeting directly with decision makers from the U.S. is something that remains a top priority for Alberta’s government. This state visit will give us a chance to discuss key issues facing both our regions and identify ways we can work together to move forward on areas of common interest that will benefit industries, businesses and people on both sides of our shared border.”

Brandon Lunty, MLA for Leduc-Beaumont

“It’s vital to be on the ground, building relationships in key U.S. states. Engaging face-to-face with legislators keeps Alberta top of mind and gives us a stronger voice as we promote our province as a leader in providing energy through these lasting partnerships. With the upcoming CUSMA review and ongoing work to strengthen economic corridors with the U.S., these connections are more important than ever.”

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. U.S. membership includes the states of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Washington. Canadian membership includes the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan and the territories of Yukon and Northwest Territories.

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 Oregon alone totalled more than $1.3 billion with the majority related to energy, forestry, agriculture and manufacturing.
  • 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 Lunty and Wright*

Feb. 8
  • Travel to Salem, OR.
  • Meetings with U.S. legislators and officials as part of the PNWER 2026 Capital Visits.

Feb. 9-10
  • Meetings with U.S. legislators and officials as part of the PNWER 2026 Capital Visits.

Feb. 11
  • Meetings with U.S. legislators and officials as part of the PNWER 2026 Capital Visits.
  • Travel to Alberta.

*Subject to change.

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