Speeches, Statements and Outreach
Ambassador Doer's visit to Ohio
Cincinnati, OH, January 11, 2012 — Ambassador Doer, Alberta's Representative to the US Dave Bronconnier, and Consul General Roy Norton (Detroit) met with officials and toured the facilities at Siemens' Northwood, OH plant. More than 450 employees at the plant produce motors utilized on the Keystone/Cushing extension pipeline and will provide the motors for Keystone XL pipeline, if approved.
Canadian ambassador Doer talks Keystone pipeline concerns
Denver, CO, September 23, 2011 — We are trying to be a part of the solution on energy reliability, efficiency and renewability. — Ambassador Gary Doer
Denver Business Journal (subscription only)
Trade relationship perspective from Canadian Ambassador
Boston, MA, September 15, 2011 — The Canada-U.S. trade relationship was the focus of the Ambassador's message during an interview with New England Cable News. He also touched on the New England relationship with Canada, noting the energy link and tourism as evidenced by the nearly 3 million Canadians who visited New England in 2010, contributing over $900 million to the states' economies.
Canada Center at Clemson University Launch
Clemson, SC, March 8, 2011 — Armed with a Canadian flag that had been flown over the Canadian Embassy in Washington, DC on Canadian Flag Day/U.S. Presidents Day (Feb 21, 2011), Ambassador Gary Doer joined the Clemson University community in launching its Canada Center intended to promote faculty research and teaching on Canada and related Canada-U.S. topics. Clemson University is located in Clemson, South Carolina, near the “I-85 Automotive Corridor” that includes Greenville and Spartanburg. In July 2010, the Clemson University Board of Trustees, under the Chairmanship of former U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Wilkins, approved this University-wide, multi-disciplinary, virtual Canada Center. The Canada-South Carolina trade relationship is valued at about $5.1 billion each year. South Carolina imports about $2.2 billion from Canada and exports $2.9 billion to Canada. Link to more info about the Center.
Governors and Ambassadors World Trade Reception
Washington, D.C., February 25, 2011 — On February 25, 2011, Ambassador Doer spoke at the inaugural Governors and Ambassadors World Trade Reception hosted by the Washington International Trade Association (WITA). WITA is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to providing a neutral forum in the nation's capital for the open and robust discussion of international trade policy and related issues. The Ambassador's comments focused on the fact that as the largest trading partner to the United States, Canada is uniquely situated to provide insights on the importance of trade and to explain Canada’s role in the global economy.
Ambassador Gary Doer and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Brady Discuss U.S.-Canada Relationship at The Ripon Society
Washington, D.C., February 16, 2011 — The Ambassador spoke on a variety of issues ranging from security and foreign policy to trade, tourism and energy. Rep. Brady also outlined the Subcommittee agenda for the coming year, calling pending trade agreements "one of the few areas of bipartisan work we can do together in Congress and create jobs".
In conversation with Maclean’s
Washington, D.C., January 20, 2011 — On Thursday, January 20, Ambassador Gary participated in a CPAC/Maclean’s Town Hall entitled: “Canada-US: Best Friends or Perfect Strangers?” at the Newseum in front of a live audience and broadcast across Canada on CPAC and the United States on C-SPAN. Ambassador Doer engaged in a lively discussion about key bilateral issues such as border security, trade and the economy, energy, and foreign policy with experts on Canadian-American relations such as Senator Pamela Wallin, David Frum, Chris Sands, Scotty Greenwood, and well-known journalists Andrew Coyne and Paul Wells.
Ask the Ambassador Video Podcast, Episode 2
Washington, D.C., December 16, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer shares his priorities, observations, and experiences with our listeners. Listen to the Ambassador on issues ranging from the economy and trade to Canada's priorities in the United States.
North American Energy Security and Economic Competitiveness Advocacy in Texas
Texas, November 29 - December 1, 2010 — On his first visit to Texas as Ambassador of Canada to the United States, Ambassador Gary Doer engaged in public speaking engagements, media interviews, private meetings with political leaders, and receptions and dinners with selected executives to deliver advocacy messaging on North American energy security, economic competitiveness, and defense and security cooperation. The Ambassador's visit to Texas, home to 57 Fortune 500 companies and anticipated to gain three new U.S. Representatives after the 2010 Census, included stops in Dallas, Ft. Worth, Houston and Austin. Political calls on Texas Gov. Rick Perry and Dallas and Houston mayors elicited statements of support on oil sands and pipeline issues. Four media interviews and an editorial board meeting resulted to date in four articles; an additional profile of Canada's impact in Texas is yet to be published.
Interview (MP3)
Ambassador Doer Speaks at Atlantic Provinces Economic Council (APEC) Outlook 2011 Conference
Saint John, New Brunswick, November 4, 2010 — Canada's Ambassador to the United States said he was encouraged by increasing signs of cooperation on the climate change agenda between the U.S. and Canada. Gary Doer cited examples of how the two neighbors had agreed on the same target to reduce GHG emissions by 2020, as well as making simultaneous policy announcements of the establishment of the identical competitive standards for vehicle tailpipe emissions. Doer said these developments show that Canada and the U.S. are successfully working together on climate change issues where possible, while allowing the flexibility for each nation to work on their own when they require unique responses.
This ongoing co-operation between the two nations stems from their shared need to have reliable, sustainable and affordable energy, said Doer. Also driving the current American disposition for greater co-operation with Canada is the ongoing issue of energy security, in which the U.S. is increasingly perceiving Canada as a safe energy source that is not hindered by the strategic risks inherent in obtaining energy from volatile regions around the globe, such as the Middle East.
The Ambassador urged Atlantic governments and business leaders to strengthen their cooperation with the U.S. by working directly with their American customers and their local elected representatives in order to strengthen existing relationships and develop new allies. He said that this strategy is particularly relevant when addressing issues that are broader and transnational in scope, such as the establishment of a legal definition of renewable energy or the development of energy systems between the U.S. and Canada, such as the Keystone Pipeline.
Doer said that strategic cooperation on energy and climate change is important not just between nation states, but also between Canadian provinces. He pointed to the recent efforts made by western provinces to work together on energy and environmental issues, and urged the Atlantic provinces to similarly pursue cooperation in these vital areas.
Ambassador Doer's Visit to Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA, October 30-31, 2010 — Canada's new Ambassador to the US, Gary Doer, made his first trip outside Washington to Philadelphia on October 30th & 31, 2009 where he presented Canada’s strategic messages to a wide variety of audiences, including a senior CEO dinner, a visit with influential Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, the keynote speech at the public launch of a new Canada-Mid-Atlantic Chamber of Commerce (CACCMA) co-sponsored by the Philadelpia World Trade Center and the Global Interdependence Center, a visit to Boeing Rotorcraft and two media interviews.
Ambassador Doer's Speech at the Canadian Club of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario, October 20, 2010 — Speaking to approximately 200 guests representing all aspects of the local Toronto community, Ambassador Doer shared his remarks, "A view from Pennsylvania Avenue: Issues driving the Canada-U.S. relationship". In recognition of Small Business Week in Canada, this was also an opportunity to emphasize the importance of trade and the impact of US legislation on small businesses.
Speech (MP3)
Ambassador Doer Letter to Nevada Senate Candidate Ms. Sharron Angle
Washington, D.C., October 18, 2010 — Ambassador Doer sent a letter to Republican Senate Candidate Ms. Sharron Angle to inform her that her comments regarding the Canada–U.S. border were erroneous and misinformed. Ambassador Doer reassures Ms. Angle that there have been no terrorist attacks on the United States coming from Canada and that several comprehensive investigations have determined that none of the 9/11 hijackers entered the United States from or through Canada.
Ambassador Doer Talks Economics and Energy During NYC Visit
Washington, D.C., September 15, 2010 — On Friday, September 10, Ambassador Gary Doer visited New York for a day of meetings and activities, highlighted by a roundtable breakfast at the Americas Society and a luncheon speaking engagement with the Green Business Club at Columbia University’s School of Business. These events offered the opportunity to connect with a range of key contacts and participate in important discussions on the economy, energy and the environment, and the overall Canada/U.S. relationship.
Ambassador Doer Visit to Minneapolis & Northern Minnesota/Northwestern Ontario
Washington, D.C., August 24, 2010 — Ambassador Doer visited Minneapolis and the adjoining border communities of International Falls, MN, and Fort Frances, ON, August 19-20, 2010, to effectively deliver key bilateral advocacy messages on trade, borders and energy. His speech to the annual meeting of the North American Convention of the International Building Trades conveyed the importance of the bilateral Canada – US relationship by highlighting the importance of cross-border supply chains, infrastructure projects and energy to promoting job growth. The ambassador's successful messaging included a well received "I'm here to listen" element, which ensured his northern Minnesota and northwestern Ontario hosts could convey their views on local and regional issues.
Ambassador Doer Discusses Canada’s Role in Western Hemisphere Energy Security at the Biennial of the Americas in Denver, CO
Washington, D.C., July 30, 2010 — On July 28, 2010, along with several international dignitaries, Ambassador Gary Doer visited Denver, Colorado, to participate in the final Biennial of the Americas events in Denver, Colorado. The Ambassador’s involvement included four key activities—VIP Luncheon & Speaking Opportunity; Media Photo-Op; Energy & Climate Change Roundtable; and Reception—which culminated the month-long celebration of culture, art and ideas from the 35 countries comprising the Western Hemisphere. Energy and sustainability issues dominated discussions throughout the day. Other topics included concerns about extreme poverty and democratic stability in the lesser developed countries in the Americas.
Ambassador Doer's Visit to Massachusetts to Attend National Governor's Association (NGA) Meeting and Annual Meeting of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEGECP), July 11-12, 2010
Washington, D.C., July 15, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer visited Boston July 9-11 to attend the National Governor's Association (NGA) meeting and a Canada Day reception hosted by BOSTN. The 34th annual meeting of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEGECP) took place immediately afterwards in Lenox, Massachusetts July 11-12, 2010. Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter served as Co-Chairs of this year's conference entitled, "Promoting Economic Growth Through Clean Energy in New England and Eastern Canada." Discussion among the governors and premiers centered primarily around the areas of clean energy technology and development as it relates to job creation and economic stimulation and energy transmission in the Northeast. As the host state of the meeting, Massachusetts was well represented by a number of administration and agency officials who promoted various aspects of the state's efforts in the areas of climate change and clean and renewable energy development. A number of provincial energy interests including Emera, Hydro-Quebec, and Newfoundland & Labrador's special advisor on climate change also featured on panels touting various projects within their jurisdictions.
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to Massachusetts for the National Governors' Association
Washington, D.C., July 14, 2010 — From July 9th to 12th, Ambassador Gary Doer visited Massachusetts to attend several high-level meetings with state and local-level officials. The Ambassador attended the National Governors' Association annual meeting in Boston where he expanded on the strong ties with state-level policy-makers that he developed as Premier of Manitoba. The Ambassador also attended a high-level reception at the Canadian consulate in Boston which was attended by business leaders, congressmen, and the governors of Massachusetts and Vermont and which celebrated Canada-U.S. ties. On July 11th the Ambassador travelled to Lennox, Massachusetts to attend the 34th annual New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEGECP) conference. The conference, co-chaired by Massachusetts’ Deval Patrick and Nova Scotia’s Darrel Dexter, was focused on economic growth and clean energy, and featured discussions on the generation and transmission of energy throughout the region. Ambassador Doer took part in a variety of discussions and also provided an update on the current state of Canada-U.S. relations. He emphasized yet again, that energy, especially hydroelectric energy, is a field with great potential for cooperation between Canada and the United States.
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to Montana for the Western Governors' Association
Washington, D.C., June 30, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer was pleased to accept the invitation of the Western Governors’ Association to speak to their annual meeting, held this year in Whitefish, Montana from June 26th to 28th. The event gave the Ambassador the opportunity to meet with state governors from of Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The inclusion of representatives from Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba helped to underline the meeting’s importance as an international forum. The meeting discussed water management, new energy technology, and cross-border landscape conservation; all issues of interest on both sides of the border. The Ambassador was specially invited to the private governor-premier breakfasts, lunches, and receptions, and was happy to build on long-standing relationships he developed at previous Western meetings as Premier of Manitoba.
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to Illinois and Wisconsin
Washington, D.C., June 21, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer spent June 14-17 traveling to Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Ambassador’s trip gave him the opportunity to discuss the importance of U.S.-Canadian cooperation with business leaders, academics, media figures, and policy makers from across the Great Lakes region. In Chicago Ambassador Doer addressed the Canada-United States Business Council, with whom he discussed the importance of Canadian energy exports and which he praised for its work on building Canada-U.S. ties. He also met with Illinois Governor Pat Quinn and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, stressing the strong economic links between Chicago and Canada. The Ambassador also traveled to Milwaukee, where he addressed the Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence Seaway Cities Initiative, a group of 71 municipalities across the region. At this event, which included 45 Canadian cities, he described the Great Lakes as a single economy and a single ecology and stressed the importance Canada places on investing in the region’s economic and environmental future.
Ambassador Doer Talks to the Homeland Security Policy Institute (George Washington University)
Washington, D.C., May 24, 2010 — On Monday, May 24, 2010, The George Washington University Homeland Security Policy Institute (HSPI) welcomed Canadian Ambassador Gary Doer as part of HSPI’s ongoing Ambassadors Roundtable Series on International Collaboration to Combat Terrorism and Insurgencies. Frank Cilluffo, HSPI’s Director, moderated the discussion.
Ambassador Doer began his remarks by noting the extremely close relationship enjoyed by the United States and Canada. Doer highlighted the fact that when it comes to the US, Canada buys more goods, sends more tourists, and supplies more oil than any other nation. In the realm of security, the Ambassador noted that the two nations work particularly closely to coordinate and, where appropriate, even harmonize their policies. As an example, Doer pointed to the recent Winter Olympics in Vancouver. "It was a classic example of cooperation between the intelligence agencies and police agencies of the United States and of Canada — and of course a lot of that was run out of NORAD [North American Aerospace Defense Command] in Colorado Springs."
Speech (MP3)
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to New York for CSG
New York, NY, May 21, 2010 — On May 21, Ambassador Doer attended The Council of State Governments' Economic Summit of the States in New York City. The Ambassador addressed state legislators, key legislative staff, state executive branch officials, state judicial officials and private sector partners. The Ambassador spoke about strategies and vital information that Canada has used to overcome current economic times. He also touched on priorities for the northern border as well as his vision for North American economic recovery and growth. In addition, the Ambassador made positive connections with Ambassador Henri-Paul Normandin and Vermont Govenor Jim Douglas. The Ambassador was praised for shedding light on the critical U.S.-Canada relationship and was thanked by many for investing time in the United States.
Ambassador Doer’s Remarks at a Reception to Protect the Flathead River
Washington, D.C., April 28, 2010 — "On Wednesday April 28th, the National Parks Conservation Association, along with the National Wildlife Federation, American Rivers, Earth Justice and the Wilderness Society, hosted a reception to celebrate the protection of the North Fork of the Flathead River. The reception, held in the Senate Dirksen building, included brief statements by Montana Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester, Ambassador Doer, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Canada, Mexico and NAFTA Roberta Jacobson (Department of State) and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science, John Tubbs (Department of Interior, and Montana native). In his brief remarks, Ambassador Doer noted the leadership of Senators Baucus and Tester on this issue, and recognized in particular Sen Baucus' long-term efforts, congratulating him on behalf of the citizens of both Canada and US for this work. The Ambassador also paid tribute to Governor Schweitzer (Montana) and Premier Campbell (British Columbia) for their memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the protection of the Flathead River."
Remarks (MP3)
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to New York
Washington, D.C., April 26, 2010 — On April 23, Ambassador Gary Doer conducted his first official visit to New York City. He had the opportunity to meet with media, security and financial sectors including Thomson Reuters, the New York Police Commissioner and the Royal Bank of Canada. The highlight of his visit was an intimate reception hosted by HOM Dan Sullivan where the Ambassador was introduced to high-level CNGNY contacts from various areas including business, finance, media and think-tanks. The trip was very successful in reiterating the importance of the Canada–U.S. relationship. The Ambassador was impressed with security and intelligence efforts in New York and both sides agreed that intelligence sharing between international partners is vital in remaining vigilant against any terrorism activity. The Ambassador also had the opportunity to witness the growing success of RBC in the World Financial Center. This initial visit was seen as successful in providing a solid base for any future opportunities and efforts in the City.
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to Detroit
Washington, D.C., April 19, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer landed in Detroit on April 16, 2010 to show his support for the Detroit River International Crossing Project (DRIC). HOM Robert Noble and the Windsor Project Team Senior Communications Advisor, Mark Butler, took the Ambassador on a tour of the Windsor – Detroit corridor, including Canadian and US locations for the new bridge. The Ambassador was also given the opportunity to speak at the Detroit Regional Chamber for the DRIC Press Conference. The Ambassador touched on the long-standing relationship between the two countries and the importance of ensuring the movement of goods across the border is safe, efficient and secure. Ambassador Doer was positive in his remarks and did an excellent job reaffirming the strong border that the two countries share.
Ambassador Doer's Visit to Minnesota
Washington, D.C., April 9, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer touched down in the Twin Cities March 25-26. The centerpiece of the visit was a joint appearance with Governor Pawlenty to celebrate the vital Canada Minnesota partnership and the 40th anniversary of the consulate. His program also included three media interviews, a lecture on water policy at the University of Minnesota, a dinner with key corporate contacts, a get-together with MNPLS staff, and a call on Medtronic Inc., a Fortune 500 medical device company with a significant presence in Canada. The visit provided an excellent opportunity to further raise the profile of Canada in Minnesota - including the fact that a full-scale diplomatic mission has existed for 40 years - make new media contacts, and entrench relations with the Governor's office as well as local high level corporate contacts. Ambassador Doer's visit helped sustain the momentum achieved in our successful "Canada Day at the Capitol" initiative earlier in the month.
Ask the Ambassador Video Podcast
Washington, D.C., April 6, 2010 — Gary Doer, Canada's Ambassador to the United States, answers questions on Canada–U.S. relations, his responsibilities, and more. (Episode 1)
Ambassador Doer's Speech at the Peterson Institute for International Economics
Washington, D.C., February 9, 2010 — On February 3, Ambassador Gary Doer delivered a keynote address at The Peterson Institute for International Economics and the C.D. Howe Institute of Canada's half-day conference entitled Better Together: The Costs and Benefits of an Integrated North American Cap-and-Trade Policy. Ambassadoer Doer took the opportunity to discuss current climate change efforts in Canada and prospects going forward in light of the outcome of the Copenhagen summit in December 2009.
Speech (MP3)
Ambassador Congratulates Canadian Recipient of Presidential Early Career Award
Washington, D.C., January 12, 2010 — Ambassador Gary Doer meets with award recipient Nonie Lesaux prior to the award ceremony at the White House. A Canadian citizen and Associate Professor at Harvard's Graduate School of Education, Nonie Lesaux was named a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honour given by the United States Government to young professionals beginning their independent research careers. Ms Lesaux was one of only 2 individuals recognized in the Field of Education this year.
White House News Release • Harvard News Release
Ambassador Doer’s Visit to Vermont
Washington, D.C., December 16, 2009 — Ambassador Doer made his first official visit to Vermont on December 3-4, 2009. During the two-day program, the Ambassador had a private meeting with Governor Jim Douglas and met with key business leaders at a breakfast and luncheon co-hosted by the Vermont State and Lake Champlain Chambers of Commerce. The Ambassador raised awareness of the Canada-Vermont relationship and delivered key messages on bilateral issues such as energy, environment, and Afghanistan during a joint press conference with the Governor and an interview that aired on Vermont Public Radio (VPR). The Ambassador and Governor Douglas also conducted a corporate outcall to Husky Injection Molding Systems, a Canadian company that provides high-value employment and investment in the region.
Ambassador Doer's Visit to San Diego
San Diego, CA, November 20-22, 2009 — In his first official outreach to the Western United States, Ambassador Gary Doer paid a visit to San Diego, California on November 20-22, 2009 to promote the Canada-U.S. and Canada-California relationships in a number of priority areas. Ambassador Doer's presence afforded the opportunity to convey key messages related to the Canada-U.S. trading relationship, Canada-U.S. defence partnership, Canada's commitment to border security and fluidity, environmental priorities, and science and technology collaboration. In support of these objectives, Canadian Fleet Pacific coordinated a visit to the region.
Ambassador Doer gave the Keynote address to the 20th ACSUS biennial conference delivering key messages related to Canada's commitment to border security and fluidity, the Canada-US trading relationship, Buy American and the detrimental effect of protectionism on both North American economies, Canada’s environmental priorities, foreign direct investment, and science and technology collaboration to a diverse, receptive audience, the majority of whom have a keen interest in Canada and follow US-Canada relations closely.
Keynote address to the Association for Canadian Studies in the United States (MP3) • Remarks commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy (MP3)
Ambassador Doer’s Speech at PNWER’s Annual Economic Leadership Forum in Regina, SK
Washington, D.C., November 6, 2009 — Ambassador Gary Doer delivered a keynote address at the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region’s (PNWER) Annual Economic Leadership Forum in Regina, SK. He took the opportunity to highlight four priority advocacy issues to an audience of key U.S. and Canadian interlocutors: (a) Sustainable Economic Recovery; (b) Energy, Environment, and the Economy; (c) Agriculture and the Integrated Supply Chain, and; (d) Border Issues & Trade Policy. PNWER is a forum for collaborative bi-national planning involving both the public and private sectors and offers leadership at the state/provincial level in Salem, Olympia, Boise, Helena, Juneau, Edmonton, Regina, Victoria and Whitehorse, and at the national level in Washington, D.C. and Ottawa.
