BOSTON — In a significant gathering today at the Massachusetts State House, northeastern U.S. Governors and Canadian Premiers convened to discuss and strengthen trade and economic relations amid increasing tensions caused by tariffs on imports and exports.
Hosted by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, the event titled “Strong Partnerships, Shared Future Convening” aimed to bolster the long-standing economic and cultural connections between the northeastern United States and Canada.
Participants included Governor Healey along with Maine Governor Janet Mills, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, Vermont Governor Phil Scott, Premier of Prince Edward Island Rob Lantz, Premier of Nova Scotia Tim Houston, Premier of Ontario Doug Ford, Premier of New Brunswick Susan Holt, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador John Hogan, Québec Minister of the Economy Christopher Skeete (representing Premier François Legault), Connecticut Energy and Environmental Affairs Commissioner Katie Dykes (representing Governor Ned Lamont), and New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs Commissioner Taylor Caswell (representing Governor Kelly Ayotte).
During her opening remarks, Governor Healey addressed the existential crisis the traditional partnership faces, stating, “For centuries, the northeastern United States and Canadian provinces have been uniquely linked by our shared cultural, familial and economic ties. But this special partnership is facing an existential crisis like never before, threatening to sever these bonds, undermine our local economies, and raise costs for residents and businesses.”
She emphasized the need for unity among the governors and premiers in seeking out economic opportunities. “That is why I wanted to convene Governors and Premiers today – to send a clear message that we are going to continue to embrace these bonds and seek out opportunities for economic relations and trade. Our economies and our communities will be stronger because of the discussions we had today and our commitment to continued partnership between our two nations.”
The convening highlighted the historic economic, cultural, and familial bonds that tie the northeastern states to Canadian provinces. Canada and the United States share the world’s most comprehensive trading relationship. Canada remains the top trading partner for most U.S. states and the single largest foreign supplier of energy. Furthermore, the U.S. serves as the largest recipient of Canadian direct investment, while maintaining its position as the top investor in Canada.
Throughout the discussions, emphasis was placed on enhancing these economic ties and promoting better understanding and collaboration among the residents of both regions. Areas singled out for further collaboration included trade and investment, tourism and hospitality, energy, manufacturing, and supply chain resilience.
A detailed recording of the discussions, moderated by former Vice Chair of Bank of America and former Chair of BofA Europe Anne Finucane, is available for those interested in the exchanges during the convening.
Statements from several governors and premiers underscored the mutual benefits derived from the partnership.
Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut remarked, “Connecticut has long shared a strong friendship and economic partnership with the eastern Canadian provinces — ties built on respect, trade, and a shared commitment to regional prosperity. From tourism to clean energy and innovation, our close collaboration has created meaningful opportunities for both sides of our border. We value this enduring relationship and look forward to deepening it in the years ahead.”
Maine Governor Janet Mills spoke on the cultural significance of the relationship, highlighting shared cuisine and heritage. She expressed gratitude for the support of fellow governors and premiers, stating, “I am grateful to the Governors and Premiers who attended today in support of the historic friendship of our states and the sovereign country of Canada. The people of Maine and the nation stand with our friends in Canada.”
Premier Susan Holt of New Brunswick affirmed the strength of the partnership, stating, “We have been good neighbours and trade partners for decades and we continue to treasure our long-standing friendship with northeastern states.”
Premier John Hogan of Newfoundland and Labrador championed the region’s natural resources, stating, “Newfoundland and Labrador is rich in natural resources and abundant in clean, reliable energy. Working together, we can power prosperity on both sides of the border.”
New York Governor Kathy Hochul voiced strong concerns about the implications of tariffs on the state’s economy, emphasizing the essential $50 billion economic relationship with Canada that impacts both families and businesses.
Premier Doug Ford of Ontario stressed a collaborative approach to end tariffs, proposing a renewed strategic alliance dubbed “Fortress Am-Can” to foster stability and long-term economic growth.
Premier Rob Lantz of Prince Edward Island highlighted the significance of this gathering to address pressures faced by exporters and the necessity to reduce barriers to trade.
Québec’s Christopher Skeete reinforced the importance of sub-national collaboration, stating, “We believe there is a clear role for states and provinces to strengthen our relationship.”
Governor Dan McKee of Rhode Island echoed similar sentiments, asserting that cooperation is vital in facing challenges posed by tariffs, and affirming the economic and cultural ties that bond the regions.
Finally, Governor Phil Scott of Vermont reiterated the critical nature of the Canadian partnership for his state, expressing the belief that increasing tariffs was not beneficial and affirming the importance of continuous dialogue to strengthen connections.
As the convening concluded, the sentiment among leaders was one of commitment to fortifying the longstanding ties that bind the northeastern U.S. with Canada, advocating for a collaborative approach to tackle challenges and seize new opportunities in the vein of mutual prosperity.
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