“Today, we are pleased to announce ambitious agreements on perimeter security and economic competitiveness, as well as on regulatory co-operation.
“These agreements create a new, modern border for a new century.
“Together, they represent the most significant steps forward in Canada-U.S. co-operation, since the North American Free Trade Agreement.
“The first agreement merges U.S. and Canadian security concerns with our interest in keeping our border as open as possible to legitimate commerce and travel.
“As I said in February... Canada has no friends among America’s enemies.
“What threatens the security and well-being of the U.S., threatens the security and well-being of Canada.
“Nevertheless, measures to deal with criminal and terrorist threats can thicken the border, hindering our efforts to create jobs and growth.
“Today, our two governments are taking practical steps to reverse that direction.
“We are agreed, for example, that the best place to deal with trouble is at the continental perimeter. . . That smarter systems can slash the needless inconvenience posed to manufacturers and travellers by multiple inspections of freight and baggage.
“We also believe that, Just as threats should be stopped at the perimeter, trusted travellers should cross the border more quickly.
“Indeed, these priorities are complementary: The key that locks the door against terrorists also opens a wider gate to cross-border trade and travel.
“The second joint initiative will reduce regulatory barriers to trade, by streamlining and aligning standards where it makes sense to do so.
“Naturally, in this area, as in all others, no loss of sovereignty is contemplated by either of our governments.
“However, every rule needs a reason.
“Where no adequate reason exists for a rule or standard, and that standard hinders us from doing business on both sides of the border, that rule needs to be re-examined.
“Ladies and gentlemen, today’s agreement will yield lasting dividends to travellers, traders, manufacturers, — in fact everybody — whose legitimate business or pleasure takes them across the border.
“And we take these steps — both of us — to protect jobs, to grow our economies, and to keep our citizens safe.
“I say ‘we,’ because we are each other’s largest export customers.
“The benefits of co-operation will therefore be enjoyed on both sides of the border.
“So, let me take this opportunity, Barack, to recognize your leadership in this work.
“It reflects the vision — the large vision - you have for continental trade and security, and your commitment to jobs and growth.
“And it is, I believe, the next chapter in a relationship that is a shining example to the world.”
