Today is 'Canada Day' at the Capitol

Minnesota House, Senate Pass Resolutions Honoring Strong State Relations with Canada

MINNEAPOLIS, March 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today the Minnesota State Senate and House of Representatives passed resolutions honoring the economic and social ties the state shares with Canada and declared it "Canada Day at the Capitol." The resolutions also noted the 40th anniversary of the Consulate General of Canada in Minnesota.

The House and Senate resolutions said "...the two countries have a shared prosperity fostered by two-way investment and jobs..."

"...the relationship between Canada and Minnesota is equally strong, combining a complex and growing network of social, economic, and even familial ties..." and

"...7.1 million American jobs were dependent on trade with Canada in 2007, including over 141,000 jobs in Minnesota..."

Canada's top diplomat in the Upper Midwest, Consul General Martin Loken, spoke to a joint meeting of the Senate and House following consideration of the resolutions. In his remarks, he said Canada and the United States have a relationship that is unique in the world – and particularly relevant to Minnesota.  

"We are the closest of friends, neighbors, and allies," said Loken. "When it comes to business, Canada is by far Minnesota's number one customer. Canada and Minnesota traded over $21 billion worth of goods in 2008. Canada is also the largest and most reliable foreign supplier of oil, natural gas and electricity to the United States overall and to Minnesota specifically. Our economies are intertwined, and that's a benefit for both of us."  

"Minnesota shares almost 550 miles of border with Canada," said Senate Majority Leader Larry Pogemiller.  "But it's not just geography we have in common.  We also share business, history and culture with our northern neighbors and we were honored to hear from Consul General Loken."

Many Canadian companies have significant operations in the state, employing thousands of residents. Likewise, several Minnesota companies have operations in Canada.

"Thousands of Minnesotans' jobs depend on trade with Canada. Many families in our state have relatives and friends in Canada. It's important to recognize those familial and economic connections, and today's resolution does that," said Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher.

"Canada values our close relationship with Minnesota. We are honored to be at the Capitol today and to have representatives and senators recognize our strong partnership," added Loken.

Loken is appointed by Canada's Prime Minister to represent the Government of Canada in the Upper Midwest region. Located in Minneapolis, Canada's Consulate General works to promote trade and investment links, to engage citizens and decision-makers on matters of shared interest, and to assist Canadians living and traveling in the US. 2010 is the 40th anniversary of the Consulate General's presence in the Upper Midwest.  More information is available at www.minneapolis.gc.ca.

Contact: Amy McBeth

612-492-2903 or [email protected]

SOURCE Consulate General of Canada

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