Washington State Honors Cross-Border Ties With Canada
Lawmakers in Washington formally recognized the state’s close relationship with Canada this week by adopting State Resolution 8696.
The resolution, introduced by State Senator and Western Washington University Associate Professor of Economics Sharon Shewmake, highlights Washington’s strong and interconnected ties with Canada.
Ceremony in Olympia
Lawmakers approved the resolution on Wednesday, Feb. 25, in Olympia. Officials then signed the measure during a ceremony attended by several regional leaders.
Among the guests were Ginny Broadhurst, director of the Salish Sea Institute; Jennifer Bettis of the Border Policy Research Institute; Blaine Mayor Mary Lou Steward; and Canadian Consul General Craig Weichel.
Economic and Cultural Connections Recognized
State Resolution 8696 acknowledges the wide range of connections between Washington and British Columbia. These links include trade, tourism, environmental cooperation, and shared natural resources.
In addition, the measure recognizes the deep cultural relationships between Indigenous First Nations in Canada and Tribes in Washington state. Lawmakers also noted the shared environmental challenges that require joint action across the border.
Institutions Praised for Cooperation
Following the resolution’s adoption, officials commended the Border Policy Research Institute and the Salish Sea Institute for their continued work in strengthening cross-border collaboration.
Through this action, Washington leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining strong political, economic, and cultural ties with Canada.
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