ARCHIVED - Public Safety Minister Toews Speaks at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance Conference

OTTAWA, May 8, 2012 — The Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, delivered remarks today at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance Conference, highlighting the Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness Action Plan.

“The Border Action Plan sets ambitious but achievable goals that will advance economic opportunities, as well as lead to greater security,” said Minister Toews. “Our aim with the Border Action Plan is to facilitate trade and economic prosperity rather than impede it. This is good news for the commercial-sector and travellers, who are looking for greater consistency and efficiency for trade and travel between Canada and the United States.”

Nearly $1.6 billion in commercial transactions cross the border every day. Pushing the border out and reducing duplication will help Canada better meet present and future challenges and facilitate trade with the United States, Canada's largest trading partner.

“Our Government's top priority remains jobs, growth and long-term prosperity,” said Minister Toews. “Making our border more efficient and secure makes sense for both Canada and the United States.”

On December 7, 2011, Prime Minister Harper and President Obama announced the Beyond the Border Action Plan which sets out joint priories for achieving the Canada-United States joint declaration, Beyond the Border: A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness. Beyond the Border articulates a shared approach to security in which both countries work together to address threats within, at, and away from our borders, while expediting lawful trade and travel.

See also:

• Speaking Notes for the Honourable Vic Toews

Information:
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657

Date modified:

2015-11-26