November 5, 2008

PREMIER CONGRATULATES NEW UNITED STATES PRESIDENT


CHONGQING, China—Premier Gary Doer today congratulated Barack Obama on his victory in yesterday’s United States presidential election.

“On behalf of Manitobans, I would like to congratulate Barack Obama on his success in becoming the next U.S. president,” Doer said from China, where he is participating in a Canadian premiers’ economic mission.

“The United States is our closest friend and neighbour as well as our greatest trading partner. We will continue to work closely with U.S. governors and states as well as the federal governments of Canada and the U.S. for the benefit of our citizens and economies on both sides of the border.”

The Canadian Leaders’ Mission: China 2008 includes Premier Dalton McGuinty of Ontario, Premier Shawn Graham of New Brunswick, Premier Robert Ghiz of Prince Edward Island and former premier Pierre Marc Johnson of Quebec as well as more than 110 business, education and other leaders including 30 from Manitoba.

Doer is returning early from the mission to attend the funeral of long-time friend and colleague Oscar Lathlin, which is being held Saturday in The Pas.