A Bond of Unity: Pres. Bill Clinton on the U.S.-Canada Relationship

Pres. Bill Clinton praised Canada as a great nation and a staunch partner, highlighting the unique relationship between the two countries. In a 1995 speech, Clinton noted that the U.S. and Canada shared a strong alliance and a set of shared values that pervaded almost all aspects of both nations' politics, societies, and economies. Clinton, who was accompanied by his wife Hillary, thanked Prime Minister Jean Chretien and his wife Aline for hosting them, and shared a series of anecdotes that showcased the cultural and historical ties between the two nations.

Key Takeaways:

• Clinton stated that the U.S. and Canada share a unique relationship, with a strong alliance and a set of shared values.
• The two countries have a joint defense program, a shared commitment to the environment, and complementary economies that create jobs and raise incomes on both sides of the border.
• Canada has shown the world how to build a gentler society with a deeply felt concern for the health and well-being of all its citizens, and the U.S. can draw inspiration from this example.
• Clinton highlighted the cultural exchange between the two countries, including the blend of French and English cultures, and the shared value of democracy.
• Clinton noted that the two countries have a joint passion for democracy, and have united in trying to protect freedom and peace and democracy and enterprise far from their own lands.
• The President referenced Canada's unique cultural heritage, including the Old Canal in Ottawa, which was constructed 150 years ago by a British engineer to help defend Canada from the United States.
• Clinton emphasized the importance of the partnership between the two countries, and encouraged the audience to celebrate their shared values and work together to bring out the best in each other.

Statistics:

• 150 years: the length of time the Old Canal in Ottawa has been in operation.
• 29: the age at which Prime Minister Chretien entered parliament.
• 28: the age at which Pres. Clinton tried to enter Congress.
• 15 points: the difference in public opinion polls between Pres. Clinton and Prime Minister Chretien.

Sources:

• A speech by Pres. Bill Clinton, delivered on February 23, 1995, at the Museum of Civilization, Ottawa, Canada.
• Remarks by Pres. Clinton, verbatim, as recorded by the White House.

[Note: The original text does not specify a publication date for the speech, only that it was delivered on February 23, 1995. The White House is not specified as a source, but rather "a speech" and "remarks".]