After years of informal collaborations, the Pacific Northwest Economic Region is taking its relationship with the Idaho National Laboratory to the next level.

Monday morning in Boise, Governor "Butch" Otter, INL Lab Director John Grossenbacher, and leaders of the Pacific Northwest Economic Region announced a new working agreement.

It establishes a stronger long-term partnership, allowing for closer collaborations in addressing bi-national regional issues. The INL will offer energy and home-land security related technical expertise and P.N.W.E.R. will market INL's capabilities to the broader region.

Governor Otter said today, "This will enhance Idaho's interests and influence within the region."