LEWISTON – State Rep. Elaine Makas, D-Lewiston, was appointed by House Speaker Patrick Colwell to serve on the Maine-Canadian Legislative Commission.

The commission serves to advise and assist in increasing cooperation between Maine and Canada, and especially between the Maine Legislature and Canadian legislative bodies.

The commission also will serve to encourage economic, cultural and educational exchanges between Maine and the Canadian provinces.

“The relationship between Canada and Maine is important for our entire state,” Makas said. “It is especially important to areas like Lewiston and Auburn because of our shared heritage.”

The Maine-Canadian Legislative Advisory Commission is made up of eight members, all Maine residents. Four members are appointed by the speaker of the house, and at least two must be serving as state representatives. The remaining four are appointed by the Senate president and must include two serving senators.