The Canadian American Business Council Brings Together High Level US and Canadian Officials for 2010 Annual Washington Policy Conference

Event Will Feature Remarks from Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and US Senator Jeanne Shaheen on Obstacles to Economic Recovery and Job Growth

WASHINGTON, June 10 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the Canadian American Business Council (CABC) will host its Annual U.S. Policy Conference entitled "What Ever Happened to the North American Market? Implications for Canada/U.S. Relations" in Washington, D.C. at the Dirksen Senate Office Building.

The forum will assemble policymakers, thought leaders and academic experts from the United States and Canada to analyze some of the key obstacles impeding economic recovery and job growth on both sides of the border.  Attendees will hear remarks from United States Secretary of Transportation, Ray LaHood, United States Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Honorable Perrin Beatty, President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and Deputy Assistant US Trade Representative, John Melle.  Meanwhile, the afternoon will feature two panels that offer suggested solutions to increase exports and improve competitive advantages for the US and Canada, a national priority for both the Obama Administration and the Harper Government.

"It is so critical for there to be an open exchange of ideas on ways we can continuously strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and Canada," said Maryscott Greenwood, Executive Director for the CABC. "Throughout both our countries' histories, Canada and the U.S. have proven to be natural growth markets for each other and we now share one of the most integrated economies in the world.  Since America exports more to Canada than to all EU countries combined and Canada being America's largest energy provider, this is an important time for us to examine how we can move this relationship forward."  

During the panel discussions, attendees will hear from Velia de Pirro, Director of the Office of Canadian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, Ed Gresser, President, Democratic Leadership Council, and Christopher Sands, Senior Fellow with the Hudson Institute.

"The U.S. and Canada share more than a common border – we are also linked by our common values and priorities," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "President Obama and I are deeply grateful to our Canadian counterparts for sharing our commitment to achieving sustainable, environmentally responsible economic growth, expanding free trade, and investing in the transportation solutions that lead to greater mobility and opportunity for our citizens."

"The United States is strongest when we engage with the international community, and our relationship with Canada is critical to our economic strength," said Senator Shaheen.  "Bolstering trade between our nations will help businesses grow during this difficult economy, and working in greater collaboration with Canada is an effective way to spur growth, encourage investment, and create jobs."

Research from the CABC in August 2009 showed that 55 percent of American voters support an exemption for Canadian companies from "Buy-American" laws to promote bilateral economic cooperation.  At the same time, 61 percent of American registered voters want to continue free trade with Canada to create jobs.  

About the Canadian American Business Council

The CABC is the voice of business in the world's most prosperous relationship. Established in 1987 in Washington, D.C., the Council is a non-profit, non-partisan, issues-oriented organization dedicated to elevating the private sector perspective on issues that affect our two nations. Our members are key business leaders and stakeholders from both sides of the border. The Council's activities include high-level briefings on issues of current concern, assistance with practical trade and policy challenges, significant networking opportunities, and informative seminars.  

For more information contact:  

Emma Rigby, Deputy Director, CABC: 202 496 7906; erigby@canambusco.org; www.canambusco.org

AJ Goodman, Assistant Vice President, FD, 212.850.5628; [email protected]

SOURCE Canadian American Business Council