Manitoba, Illinois sign transportation agreement

CHICAGO: Manitoba premier Greg Selinger and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) designed to foster co-operation in several areas, including trade and inland port development.

“Illinois and Manitoba share a common history as transportation hubs and centres for commodity trade and retail distribution throughout North America,” said Selinger.  “This agreement marks an important milestone in strengthening the already deep and enduring ties between our jurisdictions by ensuring we remain continental leaders in these areas, while also positioning ourselves to fully realize exciting new opportunities in the global economy.”

In 2010, Manitoba-Illinois trade totalled more than $2.1 billion, making Illinois Manitoba’s second‑largest US trading partner and number one source of imports among American states.

The MOU formalizes—among other areas—the intentions of Manitoba and Illinois to work together on:

• expanding trade, tourism, transportation and the development of inland ports;
• fostering growth of the mid-continent innovation and knowledge economy with a focus on life sciences and biotechnology; and
• exchanging knowledge and best practices in water stewardship, river management and research.

“This important agreement solidifies our commitment to working together to ensure both Illinois and Manitoba continue to grow and succeed in the global marketplace,” said Quinn.  “Global partners are critical to our efforts to boost our economies and create jobs.”