On July 11, 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly announced a significant agreement in principle to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. This development follows an announcement by President Biden and Prime Minister Trudeau earlier in the day.
Secretary Blinken highlighted the longstanding cooperation between Canada and the United States, emphasizing the treaty's benefits for both nations. "For the United States, the Columbia River is an extraordinarily powerful source for commerce, for energy, for the lives of so many of our fellow citizens," he stated. The river supports 40 percent of U.S. hydropower, irrigates approximately $8 billion in agricultural products, and transports over $20 billion in goods annually.
The modernization agreement aims to enhance access to energy and renewables for American consumers while lowering prices. Blinken described it as a "win-win agreement" that underscores the collaborative spirit between the two countries.
Blinken expressed gratitude towards Senator Jim Risch and Senator Maria Cantwell for their instrumental roles in advancing the agreement. He also praised Foreign Minister Joly's efforts: "Melanie Joly has played an instrumental role in getting this agreement across the finish line."
Foreign Minister Joly echoed these sentiments, recognizing Blinken's negotiating skills and stressing the treaty's significance. She noted that water management, particularly flood control, hydroelectricity, and salmon restoration were key aspects of the new agreement.
Joly thanked British Columbia’s government and indigenous nations involved in negotiations. "So finally we got it to the finish line," she remarked.
The press conference concluded with both officials expressing mutual appreciation for their collaboration on this important initiative.
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