Miami, Florida, Thursday, May 26, 2016

I’m so pleased to be here in Miami among so many friends.

All of you connect Canadians to opportunities in Miami and elsewhere in the state. And you bring Americans and people of other nationalities into contact with Canadians, helping to build the networks and people-to-people ties that are so essential to our success.

Our countries are intimately linked by peoples and cultures, as well as in politics and economics.

Yet, there’s so much potential to do more. And Canada has so much more to offer. That’s the message I hope to have left with leaders and decision makers here in Miami during my visit.

All of you here are part of Canada’s important friendship not just with this state, but with the United States as a whole. It’s with you our hope lies for continued opportunities to partner in unique and exciting ways.

In Florida, Canada has certainly made an impact. We’re this state’s number one customer. More than 315 Canadian companies operate in Florida, creating more than 42 700 direct jobs and $1.7 billion in salary.

And if that’s not enough, our trade is worth $8.1 billion each year!

As you can see, we’re making a difference here.

Why?

There are several factors, including a strong and robust innovation ecosystem and economy.

But perhaps the most important aspect of our friendship is the strong people-to-people ties Canada has with this state. These form the heart of our relationship.

But there remains enormous untapped potential for a greater and more prosperous relationship with Florida, building on our already strong ties. This begins with all of you here with us today. You, who recognize how important it is for us to work together.

We are collaborative because we know that is the best way to achieve success domestically and across borders.

Our expanding relationship is due to the dedication of people like you, true friends of Canada.

This gathering is cause for celebration. Together, you are making real contributions to Canada and to Florida. For Canadians, communities like this are a great asset. You help to extend our range and to broaden our understanding.

The world has long embraced Canada and made us stronger, and today, Canadians are reaching out and forging new links with places like Miami.

Together, it’s up to us to create the smarter, more caring world of which we dream. Let’s strive to build fair, prosperous and inclusive societies in which equality of opportunity and excellence go hand in hand. 

On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to thank you for being here and for being part of the friendship between Canada and Florida.