News release

Premiers, Southeastern U.S. Governors Discuss Issues

Premier's Office

Premier Darrell Dexter is strengthening relationships and building alliances at the 2009 Conference of the Southeastern United States - Canadian Provinces Alliance in Newfoundland.

The conference, which began Sunday, ends today, July 28.

"Nova Scotia places tremendous value on its long-standing and productive relationship with the United States," said Premier Dexter. "The Southeastern United States is economically important to Nova Scotia because they collectively represent an export market for Nova Scotia products such as rubber tires, gypsum and chemical wood pulp."

Michelin (North America), headquartered in Greenville, S.C., is one of Nova Scotia's biggest employers, through its plants in Bridgewater, Granton and Waterville.

"Strengthening existing links such as the ones we have with this part of the U.S., and exploring new opportunities, is critical for a province with a long tradition of trade and exports," said Premier Dexter. "Frankly, the time is ideal for Nova Scotia to seize new economic opportunities in an increasingly global world."

Throughout the conference, the premier has focused on building relationships and support for a collaborative effort on issues of importance to Atlantic Canadians.

He has met individually with Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams and New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham. He also plans to meet with Governor Sonny Purdue of Georgia and Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, Matt Kisbar, and other representatives from Memphis, Tennessee.

In his meeting with Governor Purdue, Premier Dexter will seek insights into the Buy American legislation that could negatively impact Canadian, and more specifically, Nova Scotia's interests. He will discuss several Gateway-related opportunities with the Tennessee officials.

More information on this conference can be found at www.seuscp.org .