No, it isn't insignificant. It is actually very significant, but in DoC that significance is paired with that of a major civ in the form of resources. For example, in a scenario where WWII actually plays out, we do not want a minor, Seljuk type, civ taking over cities in Europe. It would be much more realistic if it were Britain or America using Canadian resources, which could never happen with a Canada civ unless it were to really like gifting units, cities, and resources.