While the plan calls for strengthening the already important relationship with the United States on a variety of common initiatives including security, economic development and education, it underlined a renewed commitment to the South.

During a video interview with GlobalAtlanta, Mr. Arcand said that Quebec had been “overly preoccupied with the Northeast,” which is a large consumer of Quebec-generated hydroelectric power.

He also said that he wants to cultivate closer ties to Georgia, Texas and Florida, where he sees good prospects for economic growth and recognizes the region's increasing political influence in Washington.

On this tour, he visited Austin, Texas, and Houston, in addition to Atlanta. He included a sentimental visit to Baton Rouge, La., the city with the largest French speaking population in ...