Premier Christy Clark has welcomed two border-oriented action plans, announced yesterday by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and U.S. President Barack Obama.
The plans, which focus on North American perimeter security, cross-border trade and regulatory alignment are the Action Plan on Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness and the Action Plan on Regulatory Cooperation.
In a statement, Clark commended measures announced for B.C., including a one-year cargo-screening pilot program at Port of Prince Rupert and a plan for routine marine pre-clearance and pre-inspection.
“Better border management is a priority for British Columbia and we strongly support Canada’s co-operation with the United States on removing trade barriers, improving cargo and passenger screening, and improving joint threat assessment,” Clark said.
She said B.C. is committed to working to ensure cross-border rules are simple, clear and less expensive for “legitimate” visitors, business travellers and businesses that trade invest or provide services across the border.
“In many cases, duplicate and redundant screening and inspections exist,” Clark said. “I am pleased to see this plan includes cutting red tape for legitimate trade and travel, better-aligned regulations, and clear timelines and milestones that will measure its success.”
Jenny Wagler
@JennyWagler_BIV