It's official: moments ago TransCanada said the U.S. Department of State issued a presidential permit for the construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline, ending a multi-year controversial, at times acrimonious debate over the future of the pipeline. The pipeline linking Canadian oil sands to U.S. refiners had been blocked by Barack Obama, who said the pipeline would do nothing to reduce fuel prices for U.S. motorists and would contribute emissions linked to global warming.

"This is a significant milestone for the Keystone XL project," said Russ Girling, TransCanada's president and chief executive officer, said in a statement. "We greatly appreciate President Trump's administration for reviewing and approving this important initiative and we look forward to working with them as we continue to invest in and strengthen North America's energy infrastructure."

Transcanada also said it would continue to work with Nebraska, Montana and South Dakota to get necessary permits and approvals to advance project to construction

Full statement is below: