SAINT ANDREWS, NB, July 19, 2018 /CNW/ -
Governor Brian Sandoval Chair
National Governors Association 444
North Capitol Street, Suite 267
Washington, D.C.
USA 20001-1512
To all U.S. state governors
Dear Governors:
Canada and the United States have a long history as neighbours, allies, partners and friends. We share bonds of history, geography, values and common interests. Together, we have built the most competitive and innovative economic partnership in the world.
As Premiers of Canada's Provinces and Territories, we are committed to preserving and strengthening this relationship that is unparalleled in the world today. This is especially true now, when the economic foundations of our shared prosperity are facing many challenges.
Governors and Premiers share unique insights on why our partnership matters so much. We see firsthand the impact that policies adopted thousands of miles away can have on the daily lives of our citizens. We are also the key players in the development of strong, innovative local economies that drive national prosperity and have tangible benefits for our constituents. We have learned to work together, often through subnational cooperation, on scores of significant issues ranging from water management to energy and transportation. We build things together, and we solve problems together.
Through this unique role, the perspectives of Governors and Premiers are critical in the ongoing trade policy debate.
Governors and Premiers understand the tangible benefits of a closely integrated North American economy for communities, workers and families on both sides of our border. Our integrated market supports the creation and maintenance of millions of well-paid jobs for Americans and Canadians alike. Our industries are more competitive in the global marketplace because of the synergies they can develop within the framework of a North American economy.
With rising global competition, it is more vital than ever to the security, prosperity and growth of both Canada and the United States that this partnership continues. Recent protectionist measures by the U.S. administration have not only unfairly and negatively impacted Canadians, but have also had adverse repercussions on your industries, your workers and your families.
As leaders, we have the responsibility to work together to overcome issues that are impacting prosperity, jobs and competitiveness on both sides of our border. We are appreciative of your recent efforts to make your voices heard on these important issues, such as the letter in support of our strong trade relationships sent from Western Governors' Association to Secretary Ross on February 14, 2018. Accordingly, we are asking today for the continued support and partnership
of all governors to maintain and strengthen the prosperity and competitiveness of the North American economic space.
Governors and Premiers have a long history of positive leadership and by working together, we can ensure that the alliance between our countries will remain strong and continue for many years to come.
We look forward to deepening our existing collaboration, to the benefit of our economies and our peoples.
(signed)
Brian Gallant
Chair of Council of the Federation
Premier of New Brunswick
(signed)
Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
(signed)
Philippe Couillard
Premier of Québec
(signed)
Stephen McNeil
Premier of Nova Scotia
(signed)
Brian Pallister
Premier of Manitoba
(signed)
John Horgan
Premier of British Columbia
(signed)
Wade MacLauchlan
Premier of Prince Edward Island
(signed)
Scott Moe
Premier of Saskatchewan
(signed)
Rachel Notley
Premier of Alberta
(signed)
Dwight Ball
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
(signed)
Bob McLeod
Premier of Northwest Territories
(signed)
Sandy Silver
Premier of Yukon
(signed)
Joe Savikataaq
Premier of Nunavut
SOURCE Canada's Premiers
Jean-Francois Pelletier, Communications, Government of New Brunswick, Cell: (506) 451-5319,[email protected]
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