ALBANY — Assemblyman Michael S. Cashman is settling into his new role in the state capitol ahead of the legislative session, and on Monday was appointed to chair the Task Force on New York-Canada Relations, a working group meant to foster close social and economic relations.

The task force was launched in 2023, and its inaugural chair was former Assemblyman D. Billy Jones, the Democratic lawmaker who Cashman, D-Plattsburgh, was elected to replace. Jones stepped down from the job representing the 115th Assembly District earlier this year.

In a statement, Cashman said he was proud to take on the job of helping foster close relations with Canada.

“New York State and Canada have a deeply ingrained relationship built on cooperation and respect,” Cashman said. “As the former town supervisor for Plattsburgh, I have seen firsthand the transformative impact that a strong partnership with Canada can have for communities at the border and across our state. I am deeply honored to contribute to that relationship and look forward to working with partners on both sides of the border.”

The task force is meant to be made up of lawmakers from across New York whose districts touch Canada or rely on a connection with Canada. It’s the first-in-the-nation international state-to-nation task force to exist, although the task force primarily works with provincial leaders on the other side of the border. It currently only lists one other member, Assemblywoman Karen McMahon, D-Amherst.

“The Assembly Majority is committed to fostering a good relationship with our Canadian neighbors,” Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie said. “I have the utmost confidence that Assemblymember Cashman is the perfect choice to chair our Task Force on New York-Canada relations. His commitment to our border communities, trade, small businesses and robust tourism industry will serve him and the people of our state well in his new role.”

Cashman’s appointment got a ringing endorsement from Garry Douglas, the president of the North Country Chamber of Commerce.

“This legislative grouping has become a valuable part of sustaining and growing our vital cross-border connections and Assemblyman Cashman will be a very strong leader of the initiative, having been an active player in North Country relations with Canada for years,” Douglas said. “We thank Speaker Heastie for entrusting this task force to Michael at a time when its mission and potential have never been more important. And we pledge the Chamber’s strong partnership going forward. Onward and upward!”

Canadian officials also commented on Cashman’s appointment, welcoming him into the effort to maintain a close connection with New York.

“It is a testament to the bonds between Canada and New York that this Task Force will continue under new leadership to reinforce, strengthen, and expand the historical, cultural, familial, and economic ties we have shared over centuries,” said Tom Clark, consul general of Canada in New York. “I look forward to working with Assemblyman Cashman to explore new pathways to success for citizens on both sides of the border.”