TORONTO - Ontario's governing Liberals say Barack Obama's ascent to the U.S. presidency bodes well for the province's troubled economy.

International Trade Minister Sandra Pupatello says she believes the Democrat is prepared to support America's battered automotive industry.

She says she's looking forward to more support from the U.S. government to aid manufacturers, which will help Ontario as well.

Pupatello says the province needs the American economy to recover because Ontario's fortunes are very much tied to the U.S.

She says Obama's victory gave Americans a much-needed "shot in the arm" that will help them get back on their feet.

Economic Development Minister Michael Bryant says no matter what Obama decides to do, there must be an agreement that the Big Three automakers have to stay in Ontario.

He says he's confident that Obama will make responsible decisions on trade, despite his earlier musings about renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement.