In February 2011, President Barack Obama and Canadian Prime Minister
Stephen Harper announced a new agreement, Beyond the Border: A Shared
Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness. This
declaration described a new approach to security in which the two
nations will share responsibility for security of the two nations.
The agreement identifies for areas in which the two countries will
cooperate – addressing threats early; facilitating trade, economic
growth and increasing job opportunities; cross-border law enforcement;
and critical infrastructure and cybersecurity. The nations will work
together with respect for national sovereignty, civil rights and
liberties, protection of privacy and respect of the legal framework of
both countries.
On December 7, 2011, Obama and Harper announced the Beyond the Border
Action Plan. The Department of Homeland Security is currently seeking
public input on this plan, which can be read in the December 9, 2011,
Federal Register.
