Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has said she is not in favour of Alberta leaving Canada, but would support a referendum if enough voters want one.

She has appealed to First Nations leaders in her province to support provincial sovereignty and promised to protect their rights, according to a letter to chiefs obtained by APTN News.

If she is not in favour of separation, why is she appealing to the First Nations leaders to support it and vowing to protect their rights if it happens?