Message #231666

[Volitzer]

Countries would develop programs to better verify the identities of travellers, including through common standards for the use of biometrics and shared information on travellers in real time, according to the early draft of the border declaration.

The plan envisions far greater co-operation between Canadian and American officials in screening cargo before it leaves for North America from foreign ports. Moreover, the Harper government and Obama administration plan far greater information sharing among each nation's respective law enforcement and intelligence agencies to identity potential terrorists and criminals in the U.S. and Canada — or before they arrive in either country from overseas.

In exchange for the greater co-operation — and U.S. influence — over security, the two governments hope to speed trade by expanding trusted traveller programs, adopting common product standards and harmonizing customs rules for goods crossing at border or at pre-clearance facilities away from the border.

http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/Harper+Obama+announce+vision+border/4225641/story.html