Canada's premiers discussed cross-border co-operation and opportunities for regional economic growth with Washington State Governor Chris Gregoire and Ambassador Gary Doer at a meeting hosted by Premier Christy Clark as part of the Council of the Federation in Vancouver.

Today's talks among the leaders will contribute to the development of provincial-state initiatives that will be discussed at this fall's upcoming B.C.-Washington Joint Cabinet Meeting and Pacific Coast Collaborative Leaders Forum.

"Building stronger cross-border connections between Washington and B.C. and other provinces creates opportunities for job-creation and innovation on both sides of the border," said Premier Clark, who is the current chair of the Council of the Federation. "We have many shared objectives, including more efficient movement of goods and people across our common border, building economic competitiveness and developing the green economy. Working collaboratively will bring benefits for all of our economies."

"Though a border separates them, I am always amazed by the deep culture and economic ties that bind Washington State and British Columbia," said Gregoire, who is the immediate past chair of the National Governors Association. Gregoire's term as NGA chair ended July 16, 2011. "Today's meeting with premiers from across Canada highlights the opportunity for Washington and other states to forge stronger ties with Canada's provinces. Whether we are talking about the environment, economy or border security, America's states and Canada's provinces share many of the same priorities and goals."

British Columbia and Washington State have a strong social, economic and trading relationship. In 2010, trade between the two totalled $7.6 billion, making Washington State B.C.'s largest trading partner in the U.S. An estimated 23,000 vehicles cross Washington and B.C.'s Lower Mainland border every day. B.C. and Washington jointly pioneered the Enhanced Drivers Licence, which helps simplify travel between Canada and the U.S.

Contact:

Chris Olsen
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
604 220-1640