Alberta votes on secession while French ministers convene after weekend riots
Alberta held a non-binding referendum on remaining part of Canada, and French ministers met to address recent riots and support affected shopkeepers.
Alberta residents cast ballots in a non-binding referendum on the province's continued membership in Canada, with the outcome potentially leading to a later binding vote should a majority favor secession. Meanwhile, French ministers assembled in an emergency session to review the widespread riots, looting, and arson that unfolded over the weekend, focusing on aid for shop owners and legal action against those responsible.
President Emmanuel Macron did not attend the meeting, as he embarked on a three-day visit to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar to discuss reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The French authorities reported nearly 2,400 arrests linked to the disturbances, and the president warned that the vandals would face consequences. Additional incidents included fires set to trash cans and electric bikes, and youths throwing fountain debris at police.
Why it matters
The votes could reshape Canada's federal map, while France's ministerial response signals how governments handle civil unrest.
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