People in Alberta have voted overwhelmingly to remain part of Canada, projected results suggest, after residents of the western province were asked in a public ballot whether or not they wanted a referendum at a later date on becoming independent.

With most votes counted, more than two-thirds of voters had chosen to remain part of the country rather than pursue the referendum, according to Elections Alberta, external.

The outcome was hailed by Prime Minister Mark Carney as “a clear choice” on the part of Albertans.

At a pro-separatist watch party in Edmonton, the hum of upbeat chatter quickly quieted as those present saw the projected results. However, one separatist leader insisted his campaign was not over.

The vote was called earlier this year by the province’s leader, Danielle Smith, in response to a public petition. It was seen as a major test of national unity.

Smith herself opposed the separatist push but said the public will for a vote was undeniable. She welcomed the initial results, commenting: “Albertans have voted for a stronger Alberta in a united Canada.”

In making the case for independence from Canada, many of the separatists said the oil-rich province’s economic growth had been stifled by the environmental policies of Canada’s central government in Ottawa.

But those who opposed a breakup – including Carney – called for Canada to present a united front in the face of external pressures, including an ongoing trade war with the United States.