Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Washington State Day at Olympic Games

For Immediate Release: February 11, 2010

�The Pacific Northwest shares more than geography. We share an ecosystem, a history, a culture and an economy. I�m pleased to celebrate today as Washington State Day at the Olympics, a reminder of the close ties that our state shares with British Columbia. As we celebrate the Olympic Games, we continue to work with our partners in British Columbia to strengthen our relationship and look for additional ways to promote business and tourism opportunities that benefit us all.

�Together we have worked to ensure the flow of visitors and commerce continue freely. Every day at our four Cascade Gateway crossings, 21,000 cars and 3,000 trucks move between Canada and the United States, carrying an estimated $59 million in goods. We�ve addressed security concerns and allowed easy travel with our Enhanced Driver�s Licenses. More than 137,000 enhanced licenses have been issued so far.

�This fall, Premier Campbell and I signed an agreement setting new goals in cooperation including seeking harbor-to-harbor air service between Vancouver and Seattle to enhance trade and travel. And we continue to work together on the important environmental issues that affect our region.

�Today, the eyes of the world are on Vancouver. I know our friends and neighbors will shine as the Olympic Games unify countries and people. Congratulations to Vancouver and to the amazing athletes who will compete over the next 19 days.

�Washington state looks forward to being part of a 'two-nation vacation' for those travelling to and from the Games!�