June 30, 2010 -- Recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the Canadian Consulate General in Minneapolis PDF Print
Madam Speaker, I rise today to join my fellow Minnesotans in celebrating Canada Day and to recognize the 40th anniversary of the Canadian Consulate General in Minneapolis that serves the Upper Midwest region of the United States.

Canada and Minnesota are great neighbors, and the past 40 years have helped to strengthen our friendship through growing bilateral trade and investment ties. Canada remains as Minnesota's number one international trading partner, with an average of $16 billion in trade each year. Approximately 141,000 Minnesota jobs and more than 8 million jobs across the United States result from trade with Canada. Additionally, our Canadian neighbors make 2 million visits to states in the Upper Midwest and more than 645,000 residents of our region visit Canada each year for business and tourism.

It must also be highlighted that during peace and war time, Canada has always been a vital ally. During the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Canadian people have shared their enormous sacrifices with our military, and our nation is grateful for their deep contributions to national and international security.

It is an honor to join all residents in Minnesota's 4th Congressional District in commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Canadian Consulate General in Minneapolis, and for the celebration of the many ties between Canada and Minnesota on this grand opening of the ``Canadiana'' exhibit at the Minnesota History Center in Saint Paul.