Premier to head to Iowa to highlight Canada-U.S. trade

The premier is off Wednesday to promote Canada-United States trade.

Brad Wall has offered Saskatchewan’s assistance in engaging with the U.S. at the national and state level.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau asked Wall to represent Canada in Iowa, along with Andrew Leslie, parliamentary secretary to the federal minister of foreign affairs (Canada-U.S. relations).

Wall will highlight the trade done between the two countries and the importance of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

“Canada and the United States have forged one the most successful economic partnerships the world has ever seen,” Wall said.

“Millions of families on both sides of the borders benefit from trade. Now, more than ever, we need to actively promote the advantages of trade and point out the dangers of protectionism. We must be vigilant in protecting our shared prosperity.”

Saskatchewan exporters shipped $355 million U.S. worth of goods to Iowa last year — primarily potash, oats, canola oil and live swine.  

Wall will visit Des Moines, the state capital, to take part in a “Canada Day at the Capitol” program organized by the Consulate General of Canada in Minneapolis.

His itinerary includes meetings with Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds. He’ll also make remarks to the Iowa Senate and House of Representatives.  

Wall will also participate in a roundtable discussion with state agricultural organizations and speak at an evening reception attended by 200 business, government and academic representatives.