Canada’s Business Leaders Congratulate President-Elect Barack Obama

November 4, 2008

The following statement was released tonight by Thomas d’Aquino, Chief Executive and President of theCanadian Council of Chief Executives (CCCE).  The CCCE is Canada’s senior business association, composed of 150 chief executive officers and leading entrepreneurs from all major sectors and regions of the country.

“Canada’s business leaders warmly congratulate President-elect Obama on his decisive election victory.  The race for the United States presidency is the world’s most demanding political marathon, but Barack Obama has proven himself both a masterful campaigner and a leader of rare potential.  He will bring to the White House a wave of positive energy and a strong mandate for reform and renewal.

“At the same time, we salute the extraordinary efforts of Senator John McCain, who demonstrated throughout the campaign a passionate commitment to the highest values of public office.  Senator McCain has served his country with honour and distinction and we have no doubt that he will continue to do so in years to come.

“As Senator Obama himself has acknowledged, this is a defining moment in America’s history.  The United States faces its worst financial crisis since the Great Depression, a crisis that has shaken consumer and business confidence and exacerbated an already precarious economic and fiscal situation.  As the incoming Administration prepares to confront these challenges, I know that the President-elect can count on the support of friends and allies across Canada and throughout the world.  Now more than ever, it is vital that we work together to rebuild confidence, expand trade and create opportunities for future growth and prosperity.

“For more than 30 years, the Canadian Council of Chief Executives has championed closer economic and security cooperation between Canada and the United States.  We were private sector leaders in the push for the North American Free Trade Agreement, which has increased investment, employment and incomes across the continent.  Today, there is an urgent need for Americans and Canadians alike to redefine their cooperation with one another in 21st century terms.  We look forward to participating actively in that effort, and will be leading a mission of Canada’s CEOs to Washington, D.C., shortly after the inauguration.  Meantime, we wish the incoming Administration every success.”