Behind the scenes at the Global Energy Show in Calgary, businesses were making connections — and making deals. Canada’s largest energy conference, which ran from Tuesday to Thursday at the city’s BMO Centre, was expected to attract 30,000 people, including industry executives and political leaders from around the world. Foreign companies and investors are taking another look at Canada, at a time of global instability with disrupted energy supplies. For a city built around energy, a crowded convention floor means more introductions, sales conversations and chances for Canadian and international companies to connect. A wide diversity of businesses looking to showcase their tech — with more than 500 booths at the exhibition hall — shows how much the energy business has changed. Pumps, pipes and drilling equipment are still part of the picture, but they now sit alongside artificial intelligence , robotics, drones , automation and satellite technology. Energy companies are looking for tools that can make operations safer, cheaper and more efficient. Trade uncertainty, war and supply disruptions have pushed foreign countries to look for energy from stable allies, not just the cheapest supplier. Outfits from countries like China and Norway came to the event to promote their products, meet potential customers and better understand opportunities in the Canadian market. Watch to find out more about how the show may have opened up the next round of energy deals. Canada's high oil price 'conundrum'Bank of Canada not 'in a rush' to rescue housing markets, says top strategist • Email: dtrainer@postmedia.com