MINNEAPOLIS - Canada has appointed Rod Backman of Bismarck as the first Honorary Consul for Canada in North Dakota and will be recognizing his appointment at a State Capitol reception today.

As Honorary Consul for Canada, Backman will work to enhance the important Canada-North Dakota relationship, which last year alone amounted to $2.7 billion in trade. Canada is North Dakota's No. 1 trading partner.

Backman will work with the Consulate General of Canada in Minneapolis, which represents Canada in North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska, to strengthen relationships.

The reception will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on the 18th floor of the Capitol.