Chairman Risch Reaffirms U.S.-Canada Relationship With Deputy Prime Minister Freeland

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement after a conversation with Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Freeland:

“Today, I had a productive conversation with Deputy Prime Minister Freeland, covering many issues that are of great importance to people in both the United States and Canada. I know Ms. Freeland understands that despite ongoing challenges with COVID-19, keeping the northern border between our two nations open is of great importance to both of our economies. Additionally, there are ongoing negotiations regarding the Columbia River Treaty, with both flood control and energy production remaining at the top of Idaho’s list of priorities in any future treaty. Finally, I shared with Ms. Freeland that we are grateful for Canada’s resolve in the case of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, and stand in solidarity with the Canadian people as we continue to call for China to release Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig from arbitrary detainment. It is fitting that today is Canada Day, and in just a few days we will celebrate Independence Day in the United States. The U.S.-Canada relationship continues to be strong, and I am grateful for Ms. Freeland’s ongoing commitment to our close friendship.”

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