US urged to respect Canadian sovereignty as Alberta separatists push referendum

Alberta separatists collecting signatures for a referendum to leave Canada reportedly met U.S. officials in Washington to discuss feasibility and financing, drawing criticism from Canadian premiers who insist sovereignty be respected and that the democratic process be handled domestically; White House officials say no commitments were made, while Ipsos polls suggest about 30% of Albertans would vote to begin separation, with most residents favoring remaining part of Canada.