ST. PAUL, MN - On Tuesday, Governor Tim Walz will travel to France, where he will attend the 80th Anniversary D-Day Presidential Ceremony and recognize the Minnesotans who fought in World War II. He will also travel to Canada, where he will lead a business delegation focused on strengthening economic ties and promoting Minnesota as a trade destination.

Minnesota has many connections to World War II. Throughout the war, Minnesota soldiers distinguished themselves, showcasing bravery, heroism, and sacrifice in combat, aiding soldiers, and providing communication support.

“Those who stormed the shores of Normandy on D-Day demonstrated a fierce commitment to our country and to the ideals of freedom, courage, and sacrifice. Minnesota holds strong ties to this historic day, represented by the many soldiers who courageously risked their lives in the name of liberty,” said Governor Walz. “I am honored to have the opportunity to stand next to them in commemoration of their dedication and service.”

The D-Day Presidential Ceremony honors the troops who landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944. Several world leaders and dozens of World War II veterans are expected to attend.

In addition to the D-Day commemoration, Governor Walz will meet with leadership from Saint-Gobain and Cargill, two Minnesota companies with operations in France. Saint-Gobain is one of the world’s largest building and materials companies. They are in the process of investing $7 million to relocate the North American headquarters to Minnesota, an investment that will create 40 new jobs. Cargill is a key Minnesota partner and a major player in the supply of starch, industrial chocolate, and other food ingredients.

Governor Walz will then travel to Canada, leading a delegation of state agencies and Minnesota economic development and agricultural leaders to promote Minnesota as a destination for trade and business investment.

“Our close relationship with Canada is based on more than just proximity. Our trade and investment ties are strong and expanding, and this trip will help both Minnesota and Canada drive economic growth and create jobs ,” said Governor Walz.

The Minnesota Trade Office at the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is organizing the mission. Officials with DEED and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture are joining Governor Walz in Canada.

“DEED is leading Minnesota's coordinated strategy to grow our trade relationship with Canada,” said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. “Canada is Minnesota’s largest trading partner and foreign direct investor. On this trip, we will not only highlight and work to grow those ties, but reaffirm our friendly relationship with our neighbors to the north.”

“Canada has long been one of Minnesota’s top agricultural trading partners,” said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “We have a strong working relationship with our neighbors, and we look forward to strengthening our partnerships so that farmers on both sides of the border can benefit.”

Total trade in goods between Minnesota and Canada was valued at $21 billion in 2023. Minnesota’s exports to the country were worth $7 billion, making Canada the largest single buyer in Minnesota's $25 billion export portfolio. Exports of mineral fuels, vehicles, machinery and iron ore make up about half of all Minnesota product exports to Canada.

More than 60 Canadian companies operate at about 450 business locations in Minnesota, employing 28,400 Minnesotans and investing $13.2 billion in plant, property and equipment. Canada has the highest investment level and employment level in Minnesota of any country. About 60 Minnesota companies operate at about 1,600 business locations in Canada.

Canada is a leading trade partner for Minnesota’s agricultural products, with exports totaling $1.24 billion in 2023. Top ag products exported to the country include corn ($311 million); ethanol ($154 million); and bakery goods, cereals, and pasta ($117 million).

During the three-day business development mission, the delegation will attend two major economic development and diplomatic gatherings: the US Canada Summit in Toronto and the Conference of Montreal in Quebec. Governor Walz will speak at both conferences. He and delegation members will also meet with civic, business, and agricultural leaders in both cities.

Members of Governor Walz’s delegation to Canada includes representatives from Destination Medical Center, GREATER MSP, and the Medical Alley Association.