Central ND News

U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer has been appointed as co-chair of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group, an organization established in 1959 to foster understanding and cooperation between Canadian parliamentarians and U.S. members of Congress. The group consists of nearly 90 members and serves as a platform for discussing bilateral and multilateral issues affecting both nations.

Cramer's appointment continues his efforts to support the American-Canadian relationship. In June 2023, he joined U.S. Senator Angus King in launching the bipartisan, bicameral American-Canadian Economy and Security Caucus to strengthen ties with Canada. Previously, Cramer was a member of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group from 2013 to 2019 while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he also co-chaired the House Northern Border Caucus.

"The Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group is a strategic venue for legislators in Washington and Ottawa to engage on the shared issues our nations face," said Cramer. "Just like iron sharpens iron, the alliance between Canada and the United States is dependent on open, honest dialogue on what binds us together and where improvements are needed. I’m honored to be appointed as co-chair of the Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group and look forward to strengthening our alliance and working on resolving mutual concerns."

The association holds annual meetings alternating between Canada and the United States to address priorities such as trade, energy, infrastructure, and defense. These meetings aim to identify shared values and find solutions to mutual concerns. As a newly appointed member, Cramer will travel to Canada today for discussions with Canadian leadership.

In March 2024, Cramer received the Embassy of Canada's Maple Leaf Award from Ambassador Kirsten Hillman and Consul General Beth Richardson on behalf of North Dakota. This award recognizes North Dakota's significant trade volume with Canada, which surpasses its exports to all other countries combined.