NIAGARA FALLS, ON: Minister of International Trade Peter Van Loan and Minister of State Denis Lebel have launched public consultations on the planned Canada-US security perimeter.
“The Government of Canada is focusing on creating jobs and expanding economic growth through free, open and secure trade with the United States,” said Minister Van Loan, speaking at the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls. “We are seeking Canadians’ input on ways both countries can move forward to a safer, more secure and prosperous future. I invite all interested parties to make their views known.”
On February 4, 2011, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and US President Barack Obama issued a declaration called Beyond the Border: A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness. The declaration focuses on four key areas:
- addressing threats early;
- Trade facilitation, economic growth and jobs;
- Integrated cross-border law enforcement; and
- infrastructure and cyber-security.
Ottawa will consult with all levels of government and with communities, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and citizens on innovative approaches to security and competitiveness. The consultation will inform the development of a joint Canada-US action plan that will set out initiatives to promote security and support trade and economic growth.
Along with the declaration, the two countries have announced the creation of the Canada-United States Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC), designed to make regulations in various sectors more compatible and less burdensome.
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