Addressing a conference in Calgary, Whelan emphasized that the company’s success relies on the free flow of goods and capital across provincial borders. His stance contrasts with other industry leaders, such as Cenovus CEO Jon McKenzie, who has previously characterized the separatist sentiment as a byproduct of legitimate grievances. Meanwhile, ATCO’s Nancy Southern has dismissed the ongoing debate as unhelpful to the region's stability.

The political stakes heighten as Alberta prepares for an October 19 vote regarding a potential independence referendum. A University of Calgary School of Public Policy study warns of significant economic volatility, with long-term GDP losses reaching 16.2% in a worst-case transition scenario. Despite the province’s own estimates suggesting startup costs could exceed $55 billion, organizers continue to push forward, buoyed by recent international meetings. While Imperial Oil remains committed to its production targets—including potential growth in upstream and biofuel sectors—the broader corporate community in Alberta remains largely divided on whether to engage with the separatist narrative.