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Welcome Message Continued

The United States and Canada are vital to each other, sharing similar cultures and values, the world's largest trading partnership and longest undefended border. This is equally true for the Midwest (our consular territory encompasses Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri and parts of western Iowa and northwestern Indiana) with its population of nearly 24 million and combined "Gross State Product" in excess of US $750 billion. More than 40,000 Canadians currently live here, Canada accounts for more than 35% of the region's total international trade, and visiting Canadian academics, artists and performers contribute to its vibrant academic and cultural life.

We are neighbours, friends, and allies; yet there is much we can learn from each other in the exchange of people, goods and ideas. The Consulate General in Chicago serves as an important catalyst for these exchanges.

Our Business Development team provides value-added contact and advisory services for Canadian companies looking to build their export business. We also work with U.S. companies to assist with out-sourcing, cooperation, alliances and/or direct investment.

Our Political, Economic and Public Affairs team assists visiting Canadian artists, promotes Canadian studies in Midwestern colleges, informs American students about exceptional higher education opportunities in Canada, and provides an array of consular services to Canadians working or travelling in the Midwest.

It is my hope that whether Canadian or American, business person or student, you will visit this site often to obtain information and to share your views about any and all things Canadian. Your comments, questions and suggestions will better enable us to serve and assist you.

Thank you for visiting our website.

Georges Rioux
Consul General