The value of consular services

The planned closure of the U.S. Consulate in Winnipeg has sparked an important discussion about the value of local diplomatic representation, not only in relation to the United States, but also about Manitoba’s and Canada’s place in the world.

For more than six decades, the Consular Corps of Manitoba has been part of that international presence. Today it brings together representatives of 34 countries, forming a network that continues to grow as nations recognize the value of being connected to Manitoba, its people and its institutions.

That’s why the decision to close the U.S. office stands out. Since reopening in 2001, the Winnipeg consulate has provided meaningful local connections among governments, businesses, institutions and communities. At a time when more countries are choosing to establish representation here, its departure will be significant for Manitoba.

When people think of consuls, they may think first of national-day celebrations, cultural events and official visits. These are important occasions. They recognize the many communities that have helped build Manitoba and Canada and they help us better understand one another.

However, that is only part of the work.

Much of what consuls do takes place quietly. We make introductions, support visiting delegations, share information and help create connections among governments, businesses, educational institutions and community organizations. We can help Manitoba businesses understand a potential market or connect people who might otherwise never meet. We also help the countries we represent better understand Manitoba and Canada.

Over time, those relationships lead to trade, investment, tourism, research partnerships, educational exchanges and cultural collaboration. They can also help strengthen ties between Manitoba’s diaspora communities and their countries of origin.

Local presence matters because it creates local knowledge and trusted relationships. A representative based in Winnipeg comes to know the people and institutions of Manitoba. They understand the opportunities and challenges facing the province. When an issue arises, they know who to call and how to bring the right people together.

The Consular Corps of Manitoba does not replace the work of Canada’s diplomatic service or provincial governments. It complements that work. Consuls provide another connection between Manitoba, Canada and the countries we represent.

As chair of the Consular Corps, I have seen the value of those connections firsthand. The Corps and its members have met with mayors, ministers, premiers, business leaders, educational institutions and community organizations.

These meetings are not simply courtesy calls. They are opportunities to share perspectives, build understanding and identify areas where we can work together.

Our work is grounded in three pillars: culture, trade and tourism. All three matter to Manitoba. Culture helps us understand and celebrate the communities that make up our province. Trade creates opportunities for Manitoba businesses and workers. Tourism brings people here and encourages Manitobans to learn more about the world beyond our borders.

In the current geopolitical environment, dialogue and relationships are more important than ever. Whether the issue is trade, energy, food security, water, public safety or defence, the need for co-operation does not end at a border. Manitoba and Canada benefit when we have strong relationships with our neighbours and partners.

International engagement is not something that happens only in Ottawa. It also happens here in Manitoba — in boardrooms and classrooms, at community events, in government offices and in the conversations that take place when people are prepared to listen and work together.

The growth of the Consular Corps reflects the value that countries see in Manitoba. We should continue to build on that interest.

The United States has been a friend and trading partner of Canada for generations. It is our closest neighbour and Manitoba has particularly strong ties with the American Midwest, including through trade, shared waterways, border cooperation and continental security.

That is why I respectfully ask the United States to reconsider its decision to close its Winnipeg office.

The world works better when we create and maintain connections. The Consular Corps of Manitoba is ready to continue doing its part through collaboration, understanding and service.

Philip M. Houde is chair of the Consular Corps of Manitoba and honorary consul for the Kingdom of Morocco in Manitoba.