House Concurrent Resolution 8

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION HONORING THE RICH HISTORICAL CONNECTION AND THE LONGSTANDING AND FRUITFUL PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE PROVINCE OF QUÉBEC AND THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI.

WHEREAS, Québec and Mississippi share a rich historical connection dating back to the late 17th century, when Québec-born explorer Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville led a French expedition that established the first European settlement in what is now Mississippi, at Fort Maurepas near present-day Ocean Springs in 1699; and

WHEREAS, d'Iberville's arrival marked the beginning of French colonial influence in the region, laying the foundation for cultural and linguistic ties that continue to be celebrated today, including through annual commemorations in Ocean Springs that honor this shared heritage; and

WHEREAS, the legacy of French exploration and settlement in Mississippi, rooted in Québec's history, contributes to the state's diverse cultural identity and offers opportunities for educational, historical, and tourism initiatives; and

WHEREAS, the Province of Québec has maintained a permanent presence in the southern United States since 1978, and both Québec and Mississippi are member jurisdictions of the Southeast United States–Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) alliance, which fosters economic and cultural collaboration; and

WHEREAS, Québec serves as a diverse supplier to Mississippi's key industries, including the automotive sector, health and life sciences, machinery, and aluminum; and

WHEREAS, Québec provided more than half of all United States' imports of primary aluminum in 2023, positioning itself as a significant supplier to Mississippi's automotive and manufacturing industries; and

WHEREAS, automobiles and automotive components manufactured in Mississippi account for approximately 75% of Québec's imports from the state, demonstrating a mutually beneficial trade relationship; and

WHEREAS, the enduring economic, historical, and cultural ties between Québec and Mississippi continue to strengthen through trade, investment, and shared values; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable partnership be appropriately recognized during this special time:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That the members of the Legislature do hereby honor the longstanding and fruitful partnership between the Province of Québec and the State of Mississippi and express our commitment to continued collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the Premier of Québec, the Québec Government Office in Atlanta, and other appropriate officials as a token of respect and goodwill.