Resources and Reliability: Canada’s Global Advantage Event Recap

May 6, 2026

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On May 5, 2026, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce was honoured to host Resources and Reliability: Canada’s Global Advantage, an invitation-only event for members of the Western Executive Council, Energy Security Council, Critical Minerals Council, and Decarbonization & Clean Technology Council, Supply Chains Council, and select members of the Natural Resources & Environment Committee. The special evening featured Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), and the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. Moderated by Candace Laing, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the event brought together business leaders, policymakers, diplomats and stakeholders from across the energy and natural resources sectors for a timely discussion on Canada’s role in an increasingly complex global energy landscape.

The evening began with opening remarks from Matthew Holmes, Executive Vice President, International and Chief of Public Policy at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, who set the stage for the conversation by emphasizing the importance of strengthening Canada’s economic leadership through reliable energy production, strategic resource development and international collaboration. Following remarks from title sponsor BHP, attendees heard brief keynote addresses from both Minister Hodgson and Dr. Birol, who each offered their perspectives on the evolving global energy system, energy security and Canada’s strategic position within it.

In their respective remarks, Minister Hodgson and Dr. Birol highlighted the growing importance of critical minerals, supply chain resilience, trade diversification and energy reliability as central pillars of economic and national security. They underscored how geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade dynamics and accelerating global demand for energy and critical resources are reshaping priorities for governments and industry alike. Both speakers emphasized Canada’s role as a stable, responsible and increasingly essential supplier of energy and critical minerals to global markets.

Following the keynote remarks, Candace Laing moderated a fireside chat that expanded on these themes, exploring Canada’s energy future and its role in supporting global energy security and economic growth. The discussion examined opportunities to advance major projects, strengthen investment attractiveness and deepen international partnerships, while ensuring responsible and sustainable resource development.

A key theme throughout the conversation was the strategic importance of critical minerals to modern economies, technological innovation and national security. The dialogue also highlighted the need for strengthened supply chains, improved project certainty and greater collaboration between the public and private sectors to unlock Canada’s full potential as a global energy and resource leader.

The event concluded with a networking reception, offering participants an opportunity to continue discussions and explore avenues for collaboration across government, industry and international partners.

The Canadian Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to our title sponsor, BHP, our reception sponsors, Teck Resources Limited and TC Energy, and our collaborators at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) for their support in making this event possible.

The full photo gallery can be found here.

The full event, including keynote remarks and the fireside chat, can be viewed here.