Press Office

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Press Release

June 17, 2011

READOUT OF SECRETARY NAPOLITANO’S MEETING WITH CANADIAN PUBLIC SAFETY MINISTER VIC TOEWS

WASHINGTON—Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today met with Canadian Public Safety Minister Vic Toews to discuss the United States’ and Canada’s shared commitment to protecting the global supply chain, enhancing security within, at, and away from  our  borders, and expediting legitimate travel and trade that is critical to the economies of both countries.

“The United States and Canada have a long history of collaboration to counter terrorism and transnational crime at home and abroad while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel,” said Secretary Napolitano. “We will continue to work with our Canadian partners to ensure the security, efficiency and resiliency of the supply chains and critical infrastructure that are vital to the security and prosperity of both our nations.”

On February 4, 2011, President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Stephen Harper signed a historic declaration—Beyond the Border:  A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness—that sets forth how the two countries will manage shared homeland and economic security in the 21^st century. This “Shared Vision” emphasizes shared responsibility for the safety, security, and resilience of the United States and Canada.  This approach focuses on addressing threats at the earliest point possible; facilitating trade, economic growth, and jobs; collaborating on integrated cross-border law enforcement; and partnering to secure and strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure and cybersecurity.

“Canada is committed to improving our shared border with the United States by addressing security threats at the earliest point possible and by supporting economic competitiveness, job creation, and prosperity through improved cross-border trade,” said Minister Toews.