Alaska, British Columbia leaders sign cooperative agreement

Published 11:25 pm Wednesday, November 25, 2015

JUNEAU — Gov. Bill Walker and British Columbia Premier Christy Clark have signed a cooperative agreement, committing to work together on issues of shared interest, including the ongoing discussion over Canadian mining impacts on Alaska waters.

The non-binding memorandum of understanding was signed Wednesday.

In a release, Walker said it’s important the state foster good relationships with its trading partners and neighbors as it works to improve its economy.

Clark said the province and Alaska have a long history of working together. She says the memorandum provides for more collaboration to ensure the protection, conservation and enhancement of the shared environment and a better future for residents.

The memorandum comes as the two sides look at ways to address Alaska concerns about the impact of Canadian mining on waters flowing into the state.