Readers no doubt are well aware of the interest by China and others in Western Canada's oil sands. Consider whether you agree that the pace at which that interest is being expressed has been increasing in recent months - the latest expression of that interest being a letter of intent signed last Friday between Athabasca Oil Corp. and state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corp.

Canada's oil sands constitute a world-class asset, where ownership of that asset may well influence world economic dynamics in future decades. Consider the importance to Canada, to Alberta and Saskatchewan, and to the countries and companies that want to acquire interests and partner in the oil sands of decisions made today by both Canadian oil sands participants and the Canadian Government.

I think this is a big deal. If you are a Canadian, consider letting your politician know how you feel about Canadian oil sands ownership issues.

Topical Reference: Athabasca Oil 'contemplating a joint venture, from The Financial Post, Jameson Barlow, August 31, 2012 - reading time 3 minutes.