News Release

FREDERICTON (CNB) – Premier David Alward will work to build relationships for New Brunswick with United States governors, decision-makers, and investors at the National Governors Association meeting in Washington, Feb. 26-28.

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to tell New Brunswick's story,” said Alward. “These meetings are all about building relationships with individuals who can help to make our province more prosperous."

The meetings will include discussions with: Canadian Ambassador to the US, Gary Doer; Maine Senator Susan Collins; Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin; Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour; North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue; the Canadian American Business Council and the first meeting with Maine Governor Paul LePage upon his taking office.

Trade, energy, the economy and border issues will be the focus of these meetings.

"As a neighbour, it is important that New Brunswick maintain a strong relationship with our American counterparts," said Alward. "As Canada's most export-oriented province, it is critical to be at the table with governors and chief executive officers, highlighting the many advantages of trading and doing business with New Brunswick."

Alward will also be providing details to southern governors about upcoming Southeastern United States - Canadian Provinces Alliance conference, which will be hosted in Fredericton in June. He plans to meet Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour to discuss a draft agenda.

Alward's meeting with LePage will also involve a discussion about the World Acadian Congress in 2014 to be held in the region known as Acadia Land and Forests, an area spanning the borders of Maine, New Brunswick and Quebec.