Gov. Christine Gregoire signs cooperative agreement with BC Premier Campbell with focus on 2010 Winter Olympic Games, tourism opportunities for Washington

For Immediate Release: October 7, 2005

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA � Oct. 7, 2005 - Gov. Christine Gregoire and British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell today signed a cooperative agreement to strengthen relationships between the state and the province with a focus on building opportunities for Washington State business exchange, cultural and educational exchange, tourism, transportation, protecting our environment and business opportunities associated with the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver.

Emerging from a morning meeting with Premier Campbell, Gov. Gregoire said, �There are limitless opportunities for cooperation between the province and the state. With the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, I am particularly interested in opportunities for Washington State businesses. I have already appointed a 2010 Olympic Games Task Force co-chaired by Congressman Rick Larsen and Sid Morrison. With their leadership we will continue to position Washington businesses to support British Columbia so they may have a successful event.�

Gov. Gregoire said discussions with Premier Campbell, though preliminary, are a first step toward a meaningful role for Washington to play in the Olympics. From housing to expedited border crossing to business and technical support, Washington State has much to offer in support of Vancouver as host of the Olympics.

�We want to be the best neighbor possible for our friends in British Columbia,� Gov. Gregoire said. �That includes playing a vital role in the success of Vancouver as the host city to the 2010 Winter Olympics.�

Added Premier Campbell, "Washington is not only our neighbor, but a key trading partner and ally. Gov. Gregoire has set out an ambitious strategic direction for her state that aligns well with our goals for B.C., and I look forward to working more closely with her to further our mutual interests.�

Gov. Gregoire also encouraged cooperative tourism marketing efforts between Washington and British Columbia. �We have learned that people in Europe and Asia are very interested in travel to the Northwest and that we should strongly consider marketing Washington State and British Columbia as an excellent two nation destination.�

The governor added, �Opportunities in business exchange, cultural and educational exchange, tourism, transportation, communications and protecting our environment are endless.�

The wide-ranging discussion also included drug enforcement, environmental issues and transportation.

The governor and the premier agreed to meet regularly to monitor progress and discuss new opportunities. Premier Campbell will make plans to visit Washington State for a subsequent meeting.

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