On July 21, Sen. David Burns (R-Washington), Sen. Roger Sherman (R-Aroostook), and Rep. Beth Turner (R-Burlington) were in attendance as Maine Governor Paul R. LePage and New Brunswick Premier David Alward signed a memorandum of understanding.
The agreement establishes cooperation between the state of Maine and the Province of New Brunswick on a number of fronts, citing the state and province’s long history of cooperation, common cultural ties, and common reliance on traditional resource industries.
“As the senator for Washington County, I am very pleased to be asked to attend the meeting in Woodstock, New Brunswick,” said Sen. Burns. “The memorandum of understanding between New Brunswick, Canada and Maine that will be signed is a comprehensive list of areas of mutual interests that our state and the Canadian province want to collaborate on to better serve our communities. Having attended a similar cross-border meeting in Quebec last year, I know there is a strong desire for us to work together on a multitude of issues important to the citizens we represent.”
Rep. Turner also spoke of her enthusiasm for the agreement.
“I am honored to be present at the signing of this agreement,” she said. “Maine has much to gain from partnering with New Brunswick, and I am particularly enthusiastic about working together on transportation issues in the region.
“Transportation issues are of great concern to people in this area, and have a large effect on economic development, she added.
Sen. Sherman noted, “We already have a great working relationship with New Brunswick that is mutually beneficial for the people of Maine and our neighbors across the border. I believe this memorandum of understanding is an opportunity for both sides to build on that relationship and explore the potential for new trade opportunities.”
