Peace Garden News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, a Republican from North Dakota, traveled to Ottawa with a bipartisan group of senators this week. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the partnership between Canada and the United States. As co-chair of both the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group and the Senate American Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, Cramer emphasized the importance of economic and national security ties between the two countries.

During their visit, the delegation met with several Canadian leaders including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Foreign Minister Anita Anand, U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra, and Canada's Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly. Discussions focused on mutual priorities such as defense cooperation through NATO, Arctic readiness, cross-border economic integration, trade disruptions, and global challenges.

Cramer stated: “The United States and Canada share more than a border,” adding that open dialogue is crucial for addressing shared interests and challenges. He expressed optimism about future collaboration following productive meetings in Ottawa.

While in Ottawa, Cramer also discussed trade issues with Ambassador Hoekstra. North Dakota's economic relationship with Canada is significant; over half of its exports are directed there. In 2024 alone, North Dakota exported $3.9 billion in goods to Canada, accounting for 70% of its global exports.

The delegation's agenda included a lunch with Foreign Minister Anand and a meeting with Industry Minister Joly. They reviewed military readiness within NATO and addressed concerns over Canada's defense spending levels relative to GDP commitments made by member states.

Cramer also engaged in discussions with business leaders from the Business Council of Canada and the American Chamber of Commerce. Recently appointed as co-chair of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group alongside U.S. Senator Angus King from Maine, Cramer introduced a resolution recognizing shared interests in areas such as economy, energy, critical minerals, and national security between the two nations.