On December 7, President Obama and Canadian Prime Minister
Stephen Harper released the “Beyond the Border Action Plan.”
Following on a declaration issued by both nations’ leaders in
February, the action plan lays out a joint vision to enhance
security and accelerate the flow of people and goods between the
two nations. Already, the United States and Canada cooperate
extensively to share information and intelligence, enhance law
enforcement cooperation, and thwart potential air and sea
threats through the North American Aerospace Defense Command
(NORAD). However, by building on existing initiatives and
working to foster perimeter-based security, the initiative seeks
to enhance joint counterterrorism efforts and facilitate safe
and efficient trade and travel. Beyond the Border Action Plan
Connected by a 5,525-mile shared land border and over 115,000
flights per year, the U.S. and Canada generate more than $1
billion in trade per day between themselves. Ensuring that this
engine runs as smoothly as possible is e