U.S. and Canada unveil joint assessment to combat terrorism threats

U.S. and Canada unveil joint assessment to combat terrorism threats

2011-03-11 06:24:27 GMT+7 (ICT)

WASHINGTON D.C. (BNO NEWS) -- The United States and Canada on Thursday unveiled the Joint Border Threat and Risk Assessment to combat terrorism threats on its shared borders.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Canada's Public Safety Minister Vic Toews announced the release of the shared commitment to identifying and mitigating potential threats of terrorism and transnational organized crime along the U.S.-Canada border.

"The United States and Canada have a long history of productive collaboration," said Secretary Napolitano. "The Joint Border Threat and Risk Assessment reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing security along our shared border while facilitating legitimate travel and trade that is critical to the economies of both countries."

The initiative is a part of a shared vision for border security that Secretary Napolitano and Minister Toews discussed during meetings throughout last year. The assessment addresses a range of security issues, including terrorism, drug trafficking and illegal immigration.

"Canada is committed to a safe, secure and efficient border. This is vital to Canada's economy and to the safety and security of all Canadians," said Minister Toews.

The assessment also reflects the commitment shared by President Barack Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in February. Both leaders agreed on working together to protect borders and shared critical infrastructure.

"Canada and the U.S. are working closely to ensure that our shared border remains open to the legitimate movement of people and goods, and closed to those who would do either country harm," added Toews.

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