(1) New York 's initial possession of parts of Vermont ensured a close relationship with other New England colonies like Maine and a sustained New England influence in the colony .
(2) New York 's initial possession of parts of Maine ensured a close relationship with other New England colonies like Vermont and a continuing New England influence in the colony .

Do these two sentences mean the same thing?

Available choices:
(a). no.
(b). yes.
(a).