OTTAWA, April 9, 2008 –The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety Canada, today met with Michael Chertoff, Secretary of the United States Department of Homeland Security. This most recent meeting is in preparation of the North America Leaders' Summit being held in New Orleans on April 21 and 22.
"We are making real progress together, and my meetings with Secretary Chertoff only serve to enhance the strong working relationship between our two governments," said Minister Day. "Once again, we have had a frank and fruitful discussion of key safety and border security initiatives."
Minister Day and Secretary Chertoff discussed a number of issues pertaining to the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) ? a trilateral partnership which facilitates the cooperation of the three nations on safety and security initiatives as well as economic prosperity and competitiveness.
Also discussed was the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Under the U.S. WHTI Final Rule, as of June 1, 2009, Canadians entering the U.S. at land and sea border crossings will be required to show their passports. This rule is already in effect for those travelling to the U.S. by air. Canada continues to work vigorously with the U.S. government to ensure that legitimate trade and travel across our borders are not disrupted as a result of the new document requirements.
Building on the success of the B.C. Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) pilot project launched this past January, both Governments reiterated their support for expanding similar initiatives to other provinces and territories. These documents meet the security standards and are recognized as an acceptable alternative to passports at the Canada-U.S. border under the U.S. WHTI.
Canada and the United States continue to work together to enhance the safety and security of North America, and collaborate on a strategy to facilitate trade and travel while maintaining our secure borders, including emergency management protocols.
Information:
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Stockwell Day
Minister of Public Safety
613-991-2863
