Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she sees promising signs in the first batch of projects announced under Ottawa's new fast-tracked approval process.

Oil and gas industry experts also are heartened to see the list and commitment to fast-tracking complex projects in Canada — even if it doesn't mean a pipeline for Alberta anytime soon.

But environmentalists say the inclusion of liquefied natural gas locks Canada into a high-carbon future.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has named the first five proposals to be referred to the new Major Projects Office based in Calgary, which aims to speed development of projects deemed in the national interest.

Smith said when she looked at the list, she thought leaders in Ottawa finally "get it" and that it shows a shift in government from the Trudeau era.

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