This release was issued under a previous government.

“Today the U.S. Congress reflected the will of the American people and provided a path to approve the Keystone XL pipeline project.

“This positive, bipartisan decision is not a surprise. The indication I received in Washington last week was there is momentum on this file, and today’s approval reflects what I heard in my many discussions: this project is in the best interest of both the U.S. and Canada.

“Our countries benefit from the most integrated and successful energy relationship in the world, and, while in the U.S., I delivered that message to those for and against the Keystone XL pipeline.

“We must continue to build the necessary infrastructure to allow for the open flow of energy between our countries as we continue to strive toward our shared goals of prosperity, security and environmentally responsible resource development.

“The Keystone XL pipeline represents the next step in a broader story. Although President Obama has said he will veto this legislation, I hope he will ultimately choose to continue to build on our lasting energy and environmental partnership.”