February 2026 - A Message from GSGP Chair Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro

It is my honor to serve as Chair of the Conference of Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers (GSGP) at a moment when our region’s shared promise has never been greater. Together, we represent more than 100 million people and steward one of the world’s greatest freshwater systems. Our lakes and rivers connect us economically, environmentally, and culturally. It is our responsibility to protect these waters and strengthen the partnerships that enable our States and Provinces to thrive.

Each Governor and Premier works every day to create economic opportunity for our people, and we share similar values – rooted in the ideals of freedom and the foundational principle that everyone should have the opportunity to chart their own course. We will continue to champion initiatives that expand trade and tourism, invest in innovation, promote the sustainable use of our natural resources, and protect our world-class fisheries. Together, we can work together to grow our economies and create jobs, attract investment, and as we say in Pennsylvania, get stuff done.

The Great Lakes Region leads by example. From energy and transportation to agriculture and forestry, our States and Provinces are proving that economic strength and clean air and water go hand-in-hand. In Pennsylvania and across the region, people depend on our shared waters for jobs, tourism, and recreation, and businesses rely on strong cross-border partnerships. If Pennsylvania does well - so do our Canadian Provinces and all of our state partners.

I believe this organization can be a model for how to strengthen our relationships between Governors and the Premiers across the Canadian border. By working together, we will continue to get stuff done – creating opportunities, protecting our waters, and building a brighter future for everyone. I look forward to serving you and to the progress we will achieve as a region.

Sincerely,

Josh Shapiro
Chair, Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers 
Governor, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania