Governor Greg Abbott hosted Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada, at the Governor’s Mansion on Mar. 17 to discuss ways to strengthen energy and trade relations between Texas and Canada.
The meeting focused on economic cooperation, with both leaders highlighting the importance of a stable regulatory environment for business growth. The discussion comes as Texas continues to see rapid economic expansion and as Canada remains a key trading partner for the state.
During their meeting, Abbott welcomed Poilievre back to Texas after more than three decades. Poilievre praised Texas for its free enterprise model and advocated for increased trade between Texas and Canada. Both agreed that maintaining a predictable regulatory climate is essential for economic success. Abbott said that Texas has accelerated production of liquefied natural gas and leads the nation in cattle, cotton, semiconductors, and aerospace. He also pointed out that tax incentives, workforce development programs, a favorable regulatory environment, and strong education contribute to innovation in Texas.
Poilievre reaffirmed his support for building stronger ties between Canadian and Texan energy industries. Both leaders also emphasized the need for robust defense partnerships to protect against foreign threats.
Canada is currently the third-largest source country for foreign direct investment projects in Texas. Over the past ten years, Canadian companies have invested more than $11.5 billion across over 150 projects in Texas, creating upwards of 15,500 jobs. In 2025 alone, Canada was Texas’ second-largest export destination with over $34.5 billion in exports and $69 billion in total trade between the two economies.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to leading job growth and record employment levels in Texas. The office maintains its primary location at the State Insurance Building in Austin according to the official website. TIME magazine included Greg Abbott among its list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to the official website. The governor’s priorities include job creation, expanding economic opportunities, enhancing education, protecting individual liberties, empowering parents regarding schooling decisions, and securing the southern border according to information from the official website. Abbott has led his office since being elected governor in 2014 according to details from the official website, which also notes that his administration provides services statewide.
