Former U.S. Ambassador David L. Cohen Joins CABC Advisory Board to Strengthen Bilateral Relations
In a significant development for the Canadian American Business Council (CABC), the organization has announced that former U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David L. Cohen, will be joining its Advisory Board. This appointment marks a strategic move to leverage Ambassador Cohen's extensive experience and commitment to strengthening the ties between the United States and Canada.
Ambassador Cohen's tenure as the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, which concluded in January 2025 after more than three years, was characterized by his proactive approach in fostering a robust bilateral relationship. His efforts included initiating cross-border initiatives and promoting open dialogue, critical for addressing the evolving economic and diplomatic landscapes that affect both nations. The relationship between the U.S. and Canada has historically been one of the closest bilateral partnerships in the world, with shared values and economic interests.
Before his diplomatic service, Cohen had a distinguished career in law and business. He served as Chief of Staff to former Philadelphia Mayor Edward G. Rendell from 1992 to 1997, before becoming Chair of Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll, one of the leading law firms in the United States. His nearly two-decade tenure at Comcast NBCUniversal as a senior executive further equipped him with a broad perspective on business and governance, an asset that CABC is keen to utilize.
Beth Burke, the CEO of CABC, expressed enthusiasm about Cohen's appointment, stating, “We are honored to welcome Ambassador Cohen to the CABC Advisory Board. His insight, experience, and longstanding commitment to U.S.-Canada collaboration will be a tremendous asset as we continue to promote a strong, secure, and mutually beneficial relationship between our two countries.” This sentiment reflects the council's recognition of the complexities and opportunities in U.S.-Canada relations, especially in an era defined by global challenges and economic interdependence.
In his acceptance, Ambassador Cohen remarked, “I am honored to join the Advisory Board of the Canadian American Business Council. Throughout my time as U.S. Ambassador to Canada, I witnessed firsthand the critical importance of the U.S.-Canada relationship and the important role that CABC plays in fostering that relationship. I look forward to supporting the CABC's mission to strengthen this partnership and advance the shared prosperity and security of our two nations.”
The Advisory Board of CABC includes a diverse group of influential leaders from various sectors across North America, all dedicated to providing strategic guidance and support for initiatives promoting the collaboration between the two countries. Their collective experience is invaluable in navigating the intricacies of policy and commerce, which frequently intersect in today’s climate of rapid change.
Established in 1987, CABC operates as a leading non-profit and non-partisan organization that facilitates dialogue between both public and private sectors in Canada and the U.S. Its members include key business leaders and stakeholders from all sectors, representing a vast array of industries from entrepreneurship to globally recognized brands. Together, CABC members collectively employ around two million people and generate substantial annual revenues of approximately $1.5 trillion.
As CABC continues its vital work in representing and advocating for the interests of American and Canadian businesses alike, the inclusion of former Ambassador Cohen on the Advisory Board highlights a commitment to strengthening the economic and diplomatic bonds that have long characterized U.S.-Canada relations. The initiative aims not only to address immediate economic challenges but also to ensure that the partnership adapts to the future needs of both nations.
In summary, Ambassador David L. Cohen's induction into the CABC Advisory Board represents a focused effort to enhance the U.S.-Canada relationship through strategic insights and fostering collaboration. This appointment signals hope for ongoing dialogue and cooperation, ensuring that both nations thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.