New U.S. Ambassador to Visit All 10 Provinces
Plans For a 6-week Tour of Canada Underway
Oct 3, 2009
David Jacobson is a lawyer from Chicago, with ties to President Obama. He recently presented his credentials to Governor-General Michaelle Jean, and officially took over the role of US Ambassador to Canada.
Jacobson Will Work On Solution to “Buy American” Problem
In his role as US Ambassador, Jacobson will work on a solution to the thorny “Buy American” issue. Buy American is a piece of legislation requiring American infrastructure projects to use only American-made steel, iron, and pre-manufactured goods. Canadian officials have been pressuring the Americans for an exemption deal.
Ambassador Jacobson is optimistic a deal can be reached. In comments published in the Toronto Star, he credited International Trade Minister Stockwell Day with taking a positive first step: “I know that Minister Day sent a letter to the US trade representative, which, was a very positive first step in the process.”
Jacobson said his background as a lawyer specializing in corporate, and commercial law will help him when it comes to complex trade deals. He was a special assistant in the office for Presidential Personnel in the Obama Administration since Obama took office in January. During the campaign, he worked as the deputy finance chairman.
Ambassador Jacobson’s Four Priorities Include Trade, Foreign Policy
Ambassador Jacobson has four priorities. They are, according to the Toronto Star:
1. Trade: This will include dealing with the controversial Buy American clause
2. Energy And The Environment: The Obama Administration wants to introduce new green energy policies modeled on California’s. Challenges in this area include the Alberta Oil Sands
3. Border Issues: Jacobson sees the challenge as a balance between security and convenience. Canada and the U.S. enjoy the world’s longest undefended border.
4. Foreign Policy: Canada, and the U.S. stand together on many issues. Jacobson has acknowledged the Canadian decision to pull troops from combat operations in Afghanistan.
Before getting down to work on his priorities, Jacobson wants to see the country. In remarks published by thestar.com, he stressed the importance of touring Canada: “I think it’s very important that before I start making decisions, and trying to do things that I have a good firm understanding of the country, and its people.” Canada was Jacobson’s top choice of foreign postings. Prime Minister Stephen Harper has met with Jacobson, in order to welcome him to the new post. Canada named Manitoba Premier Gary Doer as its ambassador to the United States.
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