Chicago Council on Global Affairs: Ambassador Doer "Canada and the United States: Our Competitive Advantage in a Globalized World" October 22, 2010

The relationship between Canada and the United States is one of the closest and most extensive in the world. The United States and Canada enjoy a unique economic partnership, which is reflected in the staggering volume of bilateral trade-the equivalent of $1.6 billion a day. Our common border stretches across 5,526 miles of land and three oceans, and together we are stewards of a rich natural environment, including 20 percent of the world's supply of fresh water in the Great Lakes. Canadian Ambassador Gary Doer will address U.S.-Canada bilateral relations, including Canada's presence in the Midwest, its role as a major partner in U.S. energy security, and cooperative efforts of both countries to develop sustainable climate and energy policies.

In October, 2009, Gary Doer assumed his responsibilities as Canada’s 23rd representative to the United States of America. Prior his current position in Washington, Ambassador Doer served as Premier of Manitoba for ten years. During that time, he worked extensively with U.S. Governors to enhance Canada-U.S. cooperation on trade, agriculture, water protection, climate change, and renewable energy.

Ambassador Doer won three consecutive elections as Premier of Manitoba with successive increased majorities. In 2005, he was named by BusinessWeek magazine as one of the top 20 international leaders on climate change. His government introduced balanced budgets during each of his ten years in office while reducing many taxes. As Premier, he led strategic investments in health care, education, and training, and infrastructure.

Official Website: http://www.thechicagocouncil.org