Security and prosperity partnership Security and Prosperity Partnership Report to Leaders

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Security and Prosperity Partnershipof North America

Report to Leaders

June 2005



This Report is presented in three languages, English, Spanish and French, being all equally valid. In case of differences, the Englishversion should be used to guide the interpretation of the text.

Este Reporte se presenta en tres idiomas, inglés, español y francés, siendo igualmente válidos. En caso de diferencias en lainterpretación, se utilizará como guía la versión en inglés.

Ce rapport est publié en anglais, français et espagnol, les trois langues étant également valables. S'il y a des différences entre les troisversions, la version anglaise devrait être utilisée pour guider l'interprétation du texte.





P ROSPERITY



Manufactured Goods and Sectoral and Regional Competitiveness



Manufactured Goods and Sectoral and Regional Competitiveness:Enhancing and Streamlining Regulatory Processes in North America

INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop a trilateral RegulatoryCooperation Framework by2007.

The framework will support and enhanceexisting cooperation as well as encouragenew cooperation among regulators, includingat the outset of the regulatory process, and

encourage the compatibility of regulationsand the reduction of redundant testing andcertification requirements, while maintaininghigh standards of health and safety.

Form a trilateral “core” group to work on drafting the framework:by fall 2005.

Hold a trilateral seminar on regulatory cooperation to review the

regulatory systems of Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. Thisshould work toward determining ways and means of enhancingcooperation: by March 2006.

Finalize a framework for trilateral regulatory cooperation: by2007.

Monitor cooperation efforts, with a view to producing a progressreport/assessment: by 2008.



Manufactured Goods and Sectoral and Regional Competitiveness:Steel: A Strategic Partnership – A Strategic Industry


Pursue a North American SteelStrategy.

The three governments have agreed topursue a North American Steel Strategy topromote growth, competitiveness andprosperity. The strategy will benefit North

American manufacturers in the steel sector byreducing distortions, facilitating trade andenhancing steel market stability. Thecompetitiveness and productivity of the steelindustry will be improved through innovationand market development.

North American governments will coordinate their comments onthe OECD “Blueprint” for a steel subsidies agreement: June 2005.

Create a small, trilateral government-industry working group todraft a detailed work program for implementation of the keypriorities of the steel sector strategy: Report to be tabled fordiscussion at the November 2005 North American Steel TradeCommittee meeting.

Governments to confer with their steel industries and oneanother on the WTO Ministers meeting in Hong Kong inDecember 2005.

Governments to meet to discuss their monitoring systems toshare best practices, successes and potential ways to improveimport monitoring: by March 2006.



Manufactured Goods and Sectoral and Regional Competitiveness:

Moving Toward a Fully Integrated Auto Sector INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Create the trilateral AutomotivePartnership Council of NorthAmerica.

The automotive sector-led AutomotivePartnership Council of North America(APCNA) is a mechanism for the NorthAmerican governments to work with interestedstakeholders to ensure the competitiveness of

the automotive sector and address the fullspectrum of issues ranging from regulation toinnovation, transportation infrastructure andborder facilitation.

Formally establish the APCNA: by September 2005.

The APCNA to make recommendations to governments on keychallenges and opportunities.

Promote greater compatibilityin autos and auto partsregulations, standards andconformity assessment, whileensuring safety andenvironmental protection.

Compatibility in this sector will ensure thatexisting and future mandatory regulations andtesting procedures enhance trade andcompetitiveness, while ensuring safety andenvironmental protection.

The NAFTA Automotive Standards Council and the NAFTALand Transportation Standards Subcommittee both will meet toconsider standards, regulations and conformity assessmentprocedures identified by stakeholders.

Coordinate Canada, U.S. andMexico safety andenvironmental regulationdevelopment withUN/ECE/Global TechnicalRegulations.

North American coordination in safety andenvironmental regulation development will besignificantly improved with the participation ofall three countries in the Working Party 29(WP29).

The process that Mexico began in order to participate in theWP29 group has finished. Therefore, Mexico has decided toparticipate in the group.




A Fake-Free North America INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Combat counterfeiting andpiracy.

North Americans share a common goal ofcombatting the counterfeiting and piracy ofgoods, which weakens the incentive to create,harms economic development and can havepublic health and safety implications.

Organized crime syndicates increasingly useglobal trading lanes to distribute and sellcounterfeit and pirated goods worldwide,costing legitimate intellectual property rightsholders in North America billions of dollarseach year.

Seek to develop a coordinated strategy aimed at combattingcounterfeiting and piracy, and focusing on enhancing detectionand deterrence of counterfeiting and piracy, expanding publicawareness and outreach efforts regarding trade in pirated andcounterfeit goods, and developing measurements to assess

progress over time and to estimate the magnitude of theproblem: by 2006.




Other Initiatives INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Conclude arrangementrecognizing correspondingCanada and U.S.specifications for containersused to transport dangerousgoods.

This will contribute to ensuring that goods canflow seamlessly across borders.

Relevant authorities will meet to begin discussions.

Undertake an acceleratedprogram to promote mutualrecognition of results fromtesting laboratories withrespect to measurementstandards in North America.

Products tested with equipment whosemeasurement results are traceable to thephysical standards of one North Americancountry will be acceptable in all threecountries. This will reduce redundancy intesting and high costs for manufacturers.

Mutually recognize results from testing laboratories that makedimensional and automotive emission measurements: by March2006.

Mutually recognize results from testing laboratories with respectto flow measurements for sulphur emissions of fuel oil andgeneral chemical measurements: by March 2007.

Develop a work plan for long-term cooperation in metrology: byMarch 2007.

Facilitate trade in medicaldevices.

A reduction in the number of regulatory qualitymanagement system audits manufacturersmust undergo would lead to a reduction inregulatory burden and costs.

Regulatory cooperation may also lead to theconvergence of standards, thereby reducingunnecessary differences in technicalrequirements and promoting earlier productapprovals.

Eligible Canadian and Mexican small and medium-sized medicaldevice companies have been given access to the U.S. FDA’smedical devices small business discount.

Canada and the U.S. to pursue opportunities for cooperationwith regard to third-party quality systems audit/inspectionprograms: by March 2008.

Work toward greater North American convergence of regulatorypractices through the use of Global Harmonization Task Force(GHTF) guidances: by March 2008.





Pursue greater market accessof natural health products inNorth America.

Manufacturers of natural health products willbenefit from market access opportunities fortheir products.

Canada, U.S. and Mexico authorities will participate in aroundtable discussion to exchange information regardingdomestic conformity assessment procedures: by September2005.

Pursue development of amutually acceptable approachfor Canada and the U.S. toshare a single notificationassessment for theintroduction of new chemicalsubstances, under theCanada-U.S. Four CornersAgreement and/or OECD Pilotproject on Mutual Acceptanceof Notification.

Sharing the single notification andassessment information related to newchemicals will reduce the time and expense ofthe assessments.

Initiate steps to begin cooperative preparation and exchange ofassessment documentation between the parties.

Develop a trilateral inventory of chemicals in commerce.

Assess the results of the two-year OECD pilot project MutualAcceptance of Notification.

Engage in a commonapproach for textile labelling.

Harmonization of labelling requirements willreduce costs for manufacturers and facilitatetrade in textile and apparel trade between theParties.

Finalize and sign an arrangement on “care labelling symbols” fortextiles and apparel.

Develop a common approach to identify the dealer identity fortextiles articles.





Enhance regulatorycooperation in marine safetyequipment and pleasure craft.

This will promote market access and reducecosts.

Determine the need and desirability for negotiating anequivalency agreement, and identify the product categories andstandards/regulations for coverage for marine equipment.

Determine the need for negotiating a mutual recognitionagreement to recognize certificates of conformity for theconstruction of pleasure craft.

Strengthen and enhance theexchange of information andpublic health and safetycooperative activities related tothe safety of consumerproducts.

The Memoranda of Understanding willestablish mechanisms where sharing andexchange of information related to riskmanagement, enforcement/compliance,laboratory testing, recall, regulatorydevelopment, and post-marketing surveillancewill improve consumer product safety in NorthAmerica.

Finalize and sign a Memorandum of Understanding between theU.S. and Canada: June 2005.

Finalize and sign a Memorandum of Understanding between theU.S. and Mexico.

Initiate negotiations on a potential Memorandum ofUnderstanding between Canada and Mexico.

Work to more effectivelyidentify and respond to factorsaffecting the competitivenessof the North Americaneconomy.

The fast-changing dynamics of globalizationoffer significant opportunities but also posecommon challenges for North American firms.North American governments are alsoaffected and must be flexible and rapid in theirresponses. Building on the work of existingorganizations that provide strategic advice onways to strengthen the North Americaneconomy will help the governments identifythese issues.

Develop a proposal for consideration by Ministers that wouldbuild upon the work of existing organizations: by March 2006.





Explore opportunities forcollaboration in other keyareas, including biotechnology,nanotechnology, supply chainsand logistics management,forest products, small andmedium-sized enterprises(SMEs), building materials,fibre content labelling, GreenSuppliers Network, and on anapproach to emerging markets.

The Security and Prosperity Partnership ofNorth America commits the North Americangovernments to an ongoing process ofcooperation, with new items being added tothe work agenda by mutual agreement ascircumstances warrant. To continue the effortsto enhance the competitiveness and improvethe quality of life of the people of NorthAmerica on an ongoing basis, the NorthAmerican governments have agreed toexplore opportunities for collaboration in otherareas that could be added to the work agendabeyond the June announcement. Forexample, the governments will consult withSME stakeholders on ways of addressingtheir particular challenges within a NorthAmerican context.

Develop and report on potential initiatives.



Movement of Goods



Movement of Goods: Expanding duty-free treatment through rules of originliberalization, covering at least $30 billion in trilateral trade by 2007

INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE

Reduce “rules of origin” costson goods traded between ourcountries.

Liberalizing the rules of origin will reduceadministrative burdens as well as provideproducers with more flexibility in sourcingcomponents for use in the production of their

goods. This will make it easier for exporters toqualify for NAFTA duty-free rates and shouldlead to enhanced trilateral trade.

June: Announce completed trilateral implementation of Track Iround of rules of origin changes.

By September 30, 2005, complete public consultations on

Track II round of rules of origin changes.Aim to implement Track II round of rules of origin changes byJanuary 1, 2006, but no later than mid-2006.

By May 1, 2006, complete negotiations on Track III round ofrules of origin changes, aiming for as comprehensive andambitious a package as possible.

Explore opportunities for tradefacilitation.

Initiatives aimed at facilitating trade in goodswill enhance trade opportunities between thethree countries.

Consultations with interested stakeholders will commenceimmediately, aimed at identifying priorities for trade facilitation.

In the latter part of 2005, the three countries will meet to discussspecific proposals, reflecting input received during theconsultations.



E-Commerce and ICT



E-Commerce and ICT: Maximize on-line Business and Consumer Confidence


Framework of CommonPrinciples for ElectronicCommerce

Framework principles will support the conduct oftransborder e-commerce that will promote thegrowth of on-line business in North America bystrengthening consumer confidence throughprivacy protection, the mutual recognition ofelectronic signatures and documents, and

through the streamlining of cross-borderelectronic commerce practices and procedures.The Framework addresses the respective rolesof government and the private sector, facilitatingtransparency and security, as well as thedevelopment of the e-commerce marketplace. Itwill also accelerate ICT use by eliminatingbarriers to e-commerce in cross-bordertransactions.

Framework signed June 2005

Implementation of work elements by March 2007

Give legal effect to the use ofelectronic signatures ande-contractual transactions.

This development will foster the growth of cross-border electronic transactions, recognizingelectronic signatures and documents as legalinstruments.

Approaches and issues identified by December 2005

Draft procedures by June 2006

Implementation by March 2007



E-Commerce and ICT: Maximize on-line Business and Consumer Confidence

INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES Implementation of the Inter-AmericanTelecommunicationCommission (CITEL) MutualRecognition Agreement onConformity Assessment

This will streamline the process for equipmentsuppliers and reduce the costs associated withduplicate testing or conformity assessments ofcertain telecommunications equipment before itcan be sold in the North American marketplace.

Implementation of Phase I (i.e. acceptance of test results fromrecognized laboratories):U.S. and Canada – June 2005Mexico – Begin implementation by June 2006

Implementation of Phase II (i.e. acceptance of productcertification from recognized certification bodies):

U.S. and Canada – post-2007

Mexico -- based on the experience of Phase I , explore thepossibility of implementing Phase II by March 2008

Explore agreement on mechanisms to ensurebilateral/trilateral

consultations ontelecommunications andspectrum policy issues.

Provides each country with enhanced ability todevelop common approaches and positions forinternational bodies (International

Telecommunications Union, CITEL) andbilateral bodies (High Level ConsultativeCommission [Mexico-U.S.], Radio TechnicalLiaison Committee [Canada-U.S.]), furthercollaboration on spectrum policy and technicalregulations, reinforcing the importance of ICT torespective economies.

Work plan to be developed by December 2005

Appropriate agencies/ departments will discussprocedures for expediting thenegotiation and conclusion ofnew or amendedagreements for coordinationand sharing of frequencybands in border areas.

Canada, Mexico and the United States havelarge geographical areas in the border regions,each with considerable populations, includinglarge urban centres. As new wirelesstechnologies and services continue to emergeat an increasing rate, any agreements forsharing frequency bands will be timely, withextensive and positive impact.

Initial discussions by December 2005



Financial Services



Financial ServicesINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Evaluate current technicalassistance programs for bank,securities and insuranceregulators and supervisors.

Contributes to more effective developmentand implementation of regulatory initiatives byproviding financial sector supervisors with thetools to protect consumers and maintain theintegrity of the financial systems in the NAFTA

jurisdictions.

Inventory existing technical assistance training programs toconsider need for potential new training areas: byDecember 2005.

Encourage cooperation onfinancial literacy/financialeducation.

Promotes the use of the formal financialsector, improved financial products andservices, and competition.

Increase contacts and consultations among U.S. and Mexicanagencies on how to share experience on financialliteracy/financial education: by December 2006.

Mexico and U.S. to promoteefficiencies and encourage use

of FedACH InternationalMexico automated clearing-house mechanism.

Contributes to a more consolidatedcontinental financial infrastructure and the

reduction of costs for cross-bordertransactions.

Hold joint U.S.-Mexico promotional sessions for FedACHInternational mechanism at Mexican consulates in the U.S.

under the “Directo a Mexico” program: by June 2006.

NAFTA Financial Services Committee to report on feasibility oftransforming the U.S.-Mexico one-way automated clearing-house mechanism into a bidirectional mechanism: byJune 2007.

Canada and U.S. to consider

elimination of withholding taxesand branch-level interest taximposed on cross-borderinterest payments.

Ensures that the tax treaty reflects both the

evolution of domestic tax policies and theneeds of cross-border business and trade.

Canada and U.S. treaty negotiators to discuss in context of

current negotiations.



Financial Services

INITIATIVE

HOW

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BENEFITS

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MILESTONES

Strengthen financial sectorinformation sharing.

Contributes to improving tax administrationand reduced costs in the provision of bankingservices.

NAFTA Financial Services Committee to consult with taxauthorities and report on recommendations for improvement infinancial information-sharing arrangements: byDecember 2005.

Encourage discussion of

issues surrounding enhancedcross-border transactionsthrough a direct access to theexisting electronic tradingplatforms of stock exchangesand derivative exchangesacross the region withoutcompromising investorprotection.

Supports the strengthening of capital markets

and the more efficient provision of securitiesservices through reduced transaction costsand a lower cost of capital for firms.

Begin dialogue with regulators regarding direct access to

existing stock exchanges: by June 2007.

Seek ways to improve theavailability and affordability ofinsurance coverage for carriersengaged in cross-bordercommerce in North America.

Contributes to improving access to capital andwider competition in the insurancemarketplace.

U.S. and Canada to work toward possible amendment of theU.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulation toallow Canadian insurers to directly sign the MCS-90 formconcerning endorsement for motor carrier policies of insurancefor public liability: by June 2006.

Facilitate and increase tourism flows by various means,including the possibility of exploring the establishment of cross-border personal auto insurance: by June 2007.



Financial Services

INITIATIVE

HOW

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AMERICA

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MILESTONES

Encourage identification ofissues of common regulatoryconcern and other financialand regulatory issues ofinterest to particular partiesand work together to facilitatecooperation.

Serves to strengthen the financial systems inthe three countries while maintaining highstandards of safety and soundness, and ofinvestor protection. It also serves tostrengthen financial services’ role as asupport to increase efficiency and productivitygenerally, which will allow firms in all sectors

across North America to strengthen theircompetitive positions, thus bringing more andbetter opportunities for the development of thethree countries.

Financial Services Working Group to encourage regulators toidentify issues of common regulatory concern: Report onoutcomes of these consultations by December 2007.



Transportation



Signature Initiative: North American Air Transportation: Expanding Our Horizons


Explore opportunities forexpanding air transportationrelations on a bilateral andtrilateral basis.

Encourages the development of new markets,new services, lower prices and greatercompetition to the benefit of North Americanswhile ensuring a strong and vibrant airtransportation industry in North America thatis well positioned to pursue greater

opportunities in international markets.

Engage in negotiations in 2005-06 on a bilateral basis.

Initiate dialogue to identify issues by the end of 2006 inmoving toward a trilateral agreement.

Increase North Americanairspace capacity and allowaircraft to safely fly more-efficient routes.

Implementing Reduced Vertical SeparationMinimum (RVSM) promotes efficient and safeuse of airspace and reduces costs to aircarriers and citizens.

RVSM was implemented concurrently by all three states inJanuary 2005 as originally scheduled and agreed to. Theinitiative is complete and has yielded the increased capacityanticipated.

Reach an agreement thatallows business aviation,including fractionally ownedaircraft, to fly freely betweenany and all three countries.

Allows North American entities to makegreater use of their own aircraft to advancetheir business objectives. Increases efficiencyof business aviation by reducing costs andbureaucracy.

Consult stakeholders and establish a compatible NorthAmerican fractional ownership regulatory regime in 2005.

Address economic barriers to an “open” trilateral regime byidentifying constraints at the national level and determininghow they can be addressed, and reaching agreement on anequitable regime applying to all three countries.

Agreement to be completed and implemented in 2006.



Signature Initiative: North American Air Transportation: Expanding Our Horizons INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Enhance aviation safety andair navigation.

Safer North American skies throughharmonized standards for the implementationof RNAV (area navigation)-RNP (RequirementNavigation Performance) across NorthAmerica. This simplifies training and improvesefficiency for air carriers.

Implementing an operational Wide AreaAugmentation System (WAAS), based on theU.S. Global Positioning System (GPS),throughout North America increasesnavigational accuracy across North America.

Implementing an automated flight dataexchange between cross-border air trafficcontrol facilities leads to increased safety andcapacity.

Establish a joint strategy for RNAV-RNP harmonization andsign a formal statement in 2005.

Install five WAAS stations in Canada and Mexico in 2005.

Install four more WAAS stations in 2006.

Continue consultations to develop joint positions in 2005.

Work toward a Mexico-U.S.Bilateral Aviation SafetyAgreement (BASA).

Negotiations of a Memorandum ofCooperation to work toward this objectivewould be the first concrete step toward aneventual BASA between the U.S. and Mexico.Signing a BASA would facilitate the transferand sale of aeronautical products within NorthAmerica.

By the end of 2006, sign a Memorandum of Cooperation.



Signature Initiative: Safer, Faster and More Efficient Border CrossingsINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Use new or enhancedmechanisms to support borderplanning, information sharingand communications.

The use of bilateral mechanisms such as theU.S.-Canada Transportation Border WorkingGroup and the U.S.-Mexico Joint WorkingCommittee on Transportation Planning willallow for better planning for future priorityinvestments in border infrastructure.

The United States and Canada will completea border infrastructure compendium anddevelop an implementation plan for priorityinfrastructure investments at key land borderports of entry, improve border trade and trafficinformation, improve the efficiency of borderagencies and the cross-border movement ofpeople and goods, enhance the use ofsupporting technologies, and improve border

transportation planning and coordination.

Methods for detecting bottlenecks on theU.S.-Mexico border will be developed andlow-cost/high-impact projects identified inbottleneck studies will be constructed orimplemented.

Together, these measures will create safer,faster and more efficient border crossings,improve trade flow and enhance theprosperity of North Americans.

Revitalize the Canada-U.S. Transportation Border WorkingGroup and the U.S.-Mexico Joint Working Committee onTransportation Planning by the end of 2005.

Complete a Canada-U.S. border infrastructure compendium and

develop an implementation plan for priority infrastructure

investments at key land border ports of entry by 2008.

Conduct ongoing consultation, as appropriate, withstakeholders, including Mexican Secretariat ofCommunications and Transportation (SCT) and U.S. TradeDevelopment Administration (USTDA).

Initiate new studies on the main NAFTA corridors betweenMexico and the U.S. and develop a methodology to relievebottlenecks within the highway network and at ports of entryby mid-2006 (9 months).

Convene a U.S.-Mexico transportation financing seminar inthe summer of 2005 and conduct follow-up workshops on



Signature Initiative: Safer, Faster and More Efficient Border CrossingsINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

innovative approaches to financing projects along the borderin 2005-06 (12 months).

Track and analyze bordertrade and traffic flows usingmodern technologies.

Tracking transportation statistics andinfrastructure needs and addressinginformation gaps will enhance trilateral tradeflow awareness, support needs analysis andallow for more effective long-term planning.This will support the optimized use of NorthAmerican border infrastructure and aid incontinental transportation architecturedevelopment.

Addressing border information flowarchitecture would improve the efficiency ofborder agencies by enhancing interoperabilityof technologies and would reduce costs.

Maintain and update trinational data held in the NorthAmerican Transportation Statistics Interchange. Completeupdate in September 2005.

Implement weigh-in-motion (WIM) technology projects inCanada and at Canada-U.S. border crossings to improveborder trade and traffic flow data collection and analysis in2005-06.

Beginning in 2005, conduct analysis and modelling of U.S.-Mexico border infrastructure and trade flows to support thedevelopment of enhanced border architecture. Model 21 portsof entry with Mexican Border Wizard.

Develop a U.S.-Mexico Geographical Information System(GIS) in 2006 (18 months).

Complete final version of Border Information Flow Architectureand pursue opportunities for a pilot project.

Support the Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)Architecture design for Mexico.

Facilitate border trade andtraffic flows.

Expanding border infrastructure and cross-border commuter services enhances tradeflows by reducing border delays.

Expand the construction of six new express lanes for SENTRIor NEXUS on the Mexican-U.S. border by the end of 2006.

Implement a secure cross-border commuter service on theU.S.-Mexican border between El Paso and Ciudad Juárez byDecember 2005.



Other Transportation Initiatives


Enhance shortsea shipping. The greater use of shortsea shipping in NorthAmerican transportation and trade has thepotential to improve the utilization of waterwaycapacity, reduce congestion andtransportation costs, enhance modalintegration, and facilitate the cross-bordermovement of goods and people. Shortseashipping has the potential to increase theefficiency of a more fully integrated NorthAmerican transportation system in order tomeet current and future transportationdemands.

Hold a continental Shortsea Shipping conference by spring2006.

Implement the Memorandum of Cooperation by 2007.

Establish a Canada-U.S. joint study/research project in 2005for completion by 2007.

Coordinate North American railsafety.

Increases the efficiency of cross-border railtraffic flows by harmonizing safety proceduresand exchanging information.

Continue to conduct bi-annual senior management meetingsto consider ways of promoting rail safety and facilitating cross-border flows of rail traffic.

In 2005, evaluate procedures at critical crossing points.

Continue and expand joint safety inspections at borderlocations in 2005

Examine rail safety regulations to identify opportunities forfurther harmonization by the end of 2006.



Other Transportation Initiatives


Recognize and harmonizeNorth American motor carrierregulations and standards.

Improves commercial road transportationefficiency by coordinating, where feasible,vehicle weight and dimension (VWD)standards and administration.

Recognition and harmonization of motorcarrier medical standards and safety ratingswill improve flexibility for motor carriers, thusreducing transportation costs and promotingincreased trade flows.

Hold scoping meetings in 2005 and early 2006 to identifyspecific, potentially resolvable VWD issues.

By 2010, recommend coordination methods and implementappropriate standards and administration adjustments.

In 2005, meet to develop critical path to address motor carriermedical standards harmonization.

In 2005, establish a pre-notification protocol to advise SPPpartners of impending safety regulations that could have asignificant impact on motor carriers.

By the end of 2007, establish procedures for the electronicexchange of motor carrier safety data.

By the end of 2007, develop a system of reciprocal recognition

of motor carrier safety ratings.

Examine the benefits of anintermodal transportationconcept for North America.

A North American intermodal transportationnetwork has the potential to enhancetransportation efficiency, reduce cross-loadingdelays and increase flexibility for trans-bordertrade flows.

Develop an intermodal transportation concept by the end of2006.

Work toward establishing an intermodal corridor work plan anda Memorandum of Cooperation and pilot project.



Energy



Energy: Creating a sustainable energy economy for North AmericaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Expand science and technologycollaboration.

Our countries will work together to promotecleaner and more efficient energy sourcesand technologies.

By June 2006, hold meeting of the three governments toexplore possibilities of enhanced cooperative research anddevelopment in areas including:

o Methane hydrateso Unconventional natural gas resourceso Enhanced oil recoveryo

Carbon sequestration regional partnershipso North American Clean Coal Initiativeo Oil and natural gas technology joint research and

developmento Hydrogeno La Casa Nueva , an energy-efficient eco-housing

projecto Oil sands fuel chemistry and emissions workshop

Determine if there are opportunities for public-privatepartnerships.

By June 2006, agree on areas for enhanced research anddevelopment cooperation.

Continue development of new legal instruments to enablefurther science and technology cooperation involving financialtransfers and intellectual property.

Increase energy efficiencycollaboration.

This effort will result in enhanced cooperationin promoting energy efficiency, includingharmonizing endorsement labelling andenergy performance standards, andstrengthening North American energyefficiency standards.

By January 2006, establish a collaborative work programaimed at exchanging information and best practices andundertaking activities focused on promoting energy efficiencyin North America, as well as improving vehicle fuel efficiency.




Increase regulatorycooperation.

The three countries recognize that appropriatecoordination of their efforts will promote thepublic interest through increased efficiency,expedited and coordinated action onsignificant energy infrastructure projects, andcost savings to both the public and regulatedentities. All agree that the regulatory efforts ofthe National Energy Board (NEB), FederalEnergy Regulatory Commission (FERC) andComisión Reguladora de Energía (CRE) willbenefit from increased communication andcooperation concerning the timing and otherprocedural aspects of related matters thatmay be pending before all three agencies.

June: Announce the formation of a trilateral regulators’ groupthat will meet three times a year (every four months) todiscuss issues affecting cross-border energy projects.

Enhance electricitycollaboration.

Reliability of electricity supply through theinterconnected grid system is a priority issuefor our countries.

June: Announce the formation of a working group on electricityreliability that will coordinate U.S. and Canadian guidance tothe North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC) andregional councils, concerning an Electric ReliabilityOrganization (ERO) that will operate on an international basis.Mexico will participate in the working group as an observer.

A public workshop was held in June 2005 on the draft of“Principles for a Reliability Organization that Can Function onan International Basis,” involving participants from

governments, regulatory authorities and stakeholders.

All three countries need to coordinate effortson restructuring issues that may impacttransmission provision and access, as well asmarket design and investment issues thatimpact North American markets.

By the end of 2005, hold a trilateral electricity cross-borderinfrastructure workshop involving participants from electricityindustries and other stakeholders.






Increase natural gascollaboration.

This initiative will address a range of issuesrelated to the natural gas market in NorthAmerica, including production, transportation,transmission, distribution, consumption, trade,interconnections and liquefied natural gas aswell as projections for the future. This initiativealso focuses on transparency of regulations,laws and siting processes in the threecountries to promote enhanced regional tradeand investment. The initiative will result in abetter understanding and knowledge of theNorth American energy market that cancontribute to energy security and thereforeassist the region’s economic development.

By August 2005, release print version of North AmericanNatural Gas Vision report (Web version releasedFebruary 2005).

By June 2006, hold a workshop to obtain stakeholderperspectives, discuss gas market issues, and review currentregulations and siting processes in each country for majorpipeline projects and liquefied natural gas import terminals.

By June 2007, launch a Web site that will allow for the postingof regulatory changes and other industry information, as wellas allow for interactive comments by stakeholders on issuesand needs.

Enhance nuclear collaboration. The three countries will benefit from thesharing of information and best practices onmany issues associated with the application ofnuclear technology and the safe productionand use of nuclear power.

By December 2005, establish and hold first meeting of anuclear experts group under existing officials-level NorthAmerican Energy Working Group (NAEWG).

By June 2006, establish cooperative work plan.

By June 2007, explore and agree on second round ofinitiatives.

Enhance cooperation onhydrocarbons.

This effort will facilitate the exchange of views,experiences, information and best practices inthe hydrocarbons sector to strengthen NorthAmerican collaboration in the hydrocarbonssector.

By June 2006, hold workshops on these issues.




Improve transparency andcoordination in energyinformation, statistics andprojections.

Enhancing trilateral energy trade informationsupports decision-making by North Americangovernments and industries.

By January 2006, release a revised, updated and translatedversion of “North America – The Energy Picture,” originallydeveloped trilaterally in 2002.

By June 2007, undertake joint modelling effort.



Environment



Environment

INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES Clean Air

Reduce sulphur in fuels. Reduced sulphur emissions will lead toimproved air quality and better health forNorth Americans.

By March 2006, increase the domestic supply of low sulphurfuels in Mexico, through significant investment by Mexico,supported by technical assistance and capacity building from theUnited States and Canada.

Address ship-source airpollution.

Better data is the first step in strengtheningour efforts to reduce ship-source air pollution.

By March 2006, begin to address ship-source air pollutionthrough coordinated data gathering, marine emissions inventorydevelopment and air quality modelling.

Report on air quality in NorthAmerica.

Reporting on air quality will promote publicawareness of environmental issues.

By March 2006, develop methods for reporting on air quality inNorth America.

Clean Water

Joint Canada-U.S. review ofthe Great Lakes Water QualityAgreement.

The review is an opportunity to ensure thatthe Agreement continues to be a visionarystatement guiding not only governments, butalso members of the Great Lakes community,in the continued protection and restoration ofthe Great Lakes.

By March 2006, launch joint review of the Canada-U.S. GreatLakes Water Quality Agreement.

Work trilaterally to improvewater quality across NorthAmerica.

Enhanced information sharing on theprovision of safe drinking water will promotethe dissemination of best practices andprovide better information for decision-making.

By March 2006, enhance information sharing on policies andactions to ensure safe drinking water, including establishment ofa Web portal.



EnvironmentINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES Invasive Alien Species

Work trilaterally to identifyinvasive alien species ofcommon concern and developa strategy to reduce theirenvironmental and economicimpacts across all our nations.

Joint strategies for invasive alien species willreduce the likelihood of their introduction andspread in North America.

By March 2006, technical experts meet to prioritize invasivealien species issues in North America and identify the gaps inexisting mechanisms that could be addressed trilaterally tobetter control the spread of invasive alien species.

Ballast water management. Improved ballast water management willreduce the environmental and economic costsassociated with aquatic invasive alienspecies, such as zebra mussels.

By March 2006, promote ballast water management strategiesin North America, demonstrating our collective commitment tocombat invasive alien species.

Migratory Species and Biodiversity

Announce cooperative effortsto conserve safe habitats andmigration routes for migratoryspecies, building on existingwork in this area.

The conservation of key habitats will betterprotect North America’s migratory species.

Improved monitoring data and enhancedcollaboration will result in more effectiveconservation strategies for marine mammals.

Cooperation will improve forest management.

Sign the trinational Declaration of Intent for the Conservation ofNorth American Birds and Their Habitat.

By March 2006, undertake enhanced collaboration onmonitoring and conservation of marine mammals (grey andhumpback whales) and other migratory wildlife.

By March 2006, enhance cooperation in sustainable forestmanagement, including cooperative training for forest fire

prevention.



EnvironmentINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES Oceans

Collaborate on managementplanning for shared marineresources.

Strengthened collaboration on oceanobservation, management and habitatprotection will help preserve the integrity ofour shared marine environments.

By March 2006, establish a draft implementation plan for anOcean Observation System for the Gulf of Mexico andCaribbean as North American contributions to the Global EarthObservation System of Systems (GEOSS).

By March 2006, develop options to advance ocean observationin the Arctic as input to 2007-08 International Polar Year.

By March 2006, enhance collaboration on the implementation ofecosystem-based approaches to ocean management.

By March 2006, enhance information sharing and develop, asappropriate, strategies for complementary marine protectedareas, especially habitat for migratory species and ecologicallysensitive habitat.

Transboundary Environmental Impact Assessment

The participating parties worktoward the conclusion of atransboundary environmentalimpact assessmentcooperation agreement forproposed projects.

Minimizing the impact of projects on theenvironment will help preserve environmentalhealth.

By October 2005, terms of reference developed to scope outtrilateral work plan.

By June 2007, the appropriate agencies of each country willseek to conclude a transboundary environmental impactassessment cooperation agreement for proposed projects.



Food and Agriculture



Food and Agriculture: Enhance Food Safety and Facilitate TradeINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Establish or identify a NorthAmerican food safetycoordinating mechanism.

This initiative includes:

- cooperating in the design anddevelopment of commonstandards;

- reviewing existing food safetystandards to identify andassess, on a scientific basis,differences with a view toremoving, where warranted andappropriate, those identifieddifferences;

- sharing of information on foodsafety matters;

- collaborating effectively in thedevelopment of nationalpositions for international food

safety standard-setting bodies.

This will enhance protection of the public fromfood safety hazards while facilitating tradeand promoting economic efficiency.

By March 2006, a trilateral task force will recommend optionsfor implementation of a coordinating mechanism.

By March 2006, develop a prioritized list of standards forreview.

By September 2006, review and compare the identified foodstandards to determine similarities, differences and scientificbasis for the differences.

By March 2007, establish or identify an effective food safetycoordinating mechanism facilitating the cooperativedevelopment of common North American standards, asappropriate, and the removal of identified differences instandards where warranted and appropriate.

By March 2006, explore ways to better coordinate betweenthe NAFTA partners on Codex standards and internationalstandard setting.




Speed up the identification,management and recovery fromfood safety, animal and plantdisease hazards on a NorthAmerican basis.


- import/border inspectionpolicies;

- plant health pest managementinitiatives coordinated by theNorth American PlantProtection Organization(NAPPO);

This will enhance protection of the public fromfood safety hazards and protect NorthAmerica’s animal and plant resources fromdisease and pests. Recovery from outbreaksor incidents that do occur will be facilitated,including reduction of trade and economicimpact.

By December 2005, explore ways to implement electronictransmission of certificates for meat, poultry, animal healthand plant health on a trilateral basis and other products asidentified.

By September 2006, conduct a pilot project within oneprogram area and by December 2006, report on thepracticality of issuing electronic certificates.

By March 2006, develop standardized procedures concerningnotification and follow-up actions taken due to non-compliance.

By March 2007, develop common approaches for borderinspections of live animals.

By March 2007, explore ways to establish common

certification criteria, where certificates are required.

By June 2006, develop standardized North Americanprocedures and criteria to recognize pest-free areas.

By March 2006, develop a common approach to standardizethe regulatory measures taken in response to Phakopsora pachyrhizi (soybean rust) pest detection based on the risk itpresents to each country’s plant health status.

By June 2006, complete a regulatory standard for NorthAmerican imports of propagative material.

By June 2006, complete a joint protocol for the commercialmovement of biocontrol agents.




By December 2006, investigate the feasibility of jointpreclearance programs for plant commodities shipped intoNorth America.

By March 2007, jointly conduct offshore audits/evaluations ofcertification programs for certain plant commodities.

- animal health initiatives; By June 2005, harmonize North American import approachfor bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) management.

By March 2006, review, explore and report on approachesconcerning feed, surveillance and risk management tooptimize transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE)management in a North American context.

By June 2006, develop harmonized risk mitigation andmanagement approaches applicable throughout NorthAmerica, including compartmentality (regionalization/disease-

free zones), that are appropriate to the animal health diseasestatus.

By June 2006, modify existing protocols with the goal ofimplementation in order to allow for the transit of productsthrough the U.S. in which the process of transiting itself doesnot pose a risk to the U.S.

By March 2007, complete the respective regulatoryapproaches in each country to implement the harmonizedimport approach for BSE.




- veterinary drugs and biologics; By March 2007, review, explore and report on commontechnical standards for demonstrating the safety and efficacyof licensed/regulated animal health products (e.g. veterinarydrugs and biologics) that may result in animal or zoonoticdiseases (e.g. BSE, foot and mouth disease) or antimicrobialresistance.

By March 2007, report on differences and approaches toapproval of veterinary drugs and vaccines and feasibility forfurther harmonization.

- labelling approaches. By March 2007, utilizing trilateral mechanisms, explorecommon approaches to labelling, as feasible andappropriate, in key areas such as nutrition, allergens,production and process methods, organics, country of origin,highlighted ingredients and misleading claims.




Work to resolve differences inpesticide maximum residuelimits that may be barriers totrade and undertake jointreviews of pesticideregistrations.

Promotes greater consistency in pesticideregulation in North America. Enhancesprotection of the public while facilitating tradeand economic efficiency .

By September 2005, complete collaborative data collectionactivities for pest control products to meet the needs of“minor crop” growers. (Note: minor crops include most fruits,nuts and vegetables. Then by December 2005, select pestcontrol products for joint review by governments andstakeholders and by March 2006, complete joint reviews forsimultaneous approval of selected pest control products.

By December 2005, develop a long-term trade irritant/riskreduction strategy for pulse crops and resolution of specificpriority trade issues identified by stakeholders.

By December 2006, release final risk assessments based ona thorough re-evaluation of heavy-duty wood preservatives.

By September 2006, complete reviews for four to sixconventional chemicals.



Food and Agriculture: Enhance Laboratory Coordination


Enhance capacity by leveragingexpertise and technology byworking cooperatively within theestablished North AmericanForeign Animal Diseaselaboratory network to identifymethodologies and recognizeequivalent diagnosticperformance and identificationmethodologies for select animaldiseases, such as BSE andavian influenza.

Enhances the ability of laboratories to supportmeasures to prevent and respond to animalhealth diseases in North America includingthose that represent a threat to human health.

By June 2005, identify programs to be able to identifymethodologies and recognize equivalent diagnosticperformance for select animal diseases, such as BSE andavian influenza.

By March 2007, prioritize, assess and recognize themethodologies and proficiency for selected animal diseases.

Enhance capacity by leveragingexpertise and technologythrough the establishment of aplant health laboratory networkto identify equivalentmethodologies for the detectionand identification, surveillanceand risk assessment of plantdiseases and pests.

Enhances the ability of laboratories to supportmeasures to prevent and respond to plantdiseases and pests that pose a risk to NorthAmerican forests and crops and associatedeconomic activities.

By March 2006, establish a laboratory working group in thearea of plant health similar to the existing North AmericanForeign Animal Disease laboratory network.

By March 2009, recognize equivalent diagnosticmethodologies for the detection and identification, surveillanceand risk assessment of selected plant pests and diseases.



Food and Agriculture: Enhance Laboratory CoordinationINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Identify the appropriategroup/vehicle to facilitate theimplementation of food safetylaboratory initiatives.


- assess and recognizeequivalence, as appropriate, ofanalytical methods usingagreed method performancecriteria;

- enhance quality assurance forpriority areas of food safetyhazards;

- build confidence throughtrilateral participation in trainingcourses and exchanging ofinformation and participation inproficiency testing.

Enhances the ability of laboratories to supportmeasures to protect the public from foodsafety hazards.

By January 2006 , establish a task force to identify existingtrilateral forums for laboratory cooperation, ensuring that allappropriate regulatory authorities are included.

By March 2006, identify or establish the appropriategroup/vehicle.

By January 2007, determine performance criteria to assessanalytical methods.

By December 2007, identify areas of common interest ofwhich to assess equivalency.

By March 2008, begin to assess analytical methods.

By December 2008, identify equivalency of selected analyticalmethods.

By March 2006, share laboratory quality assurance and qualitycontrol procedures and practices.

By March 2007, exchange information of proficiency testingprograms in which each country participates and identify andfill any gaps where programs are not available.

By January 2006, participate in the Food EmergencyResponse Network (FERN) course for both microbiologicaland chemical disciplines.

By March 2006, all three countries participate in generallaboratory procedures/courses offered by Canada and Mexico.



Food and Agriculture: Increase Cooperation in Agricultural Biotechnology

RegulationINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Continue to support thecooperative effort within NorthAmerican BiotechnologyInitiative for the initiation,coordination and prioritization of

various biotech activities.

Including the followinginitiatives:

- work toward developingcommon approaches forregulatory policies related toproducts of biotechnology;

- cooperate and shareinformation on internationalbiotechnology activities.

Promotes greater consistency in theregulation of products of biotechnology.

Enhances food safety while facilitating tradeand economic activity.

By March 2006, expand the current technical regulatoryexchanges between Canada and the United States to includeMexican regulators and formalize regular trilateral regulatoryexchanges.

By March 2006, establish training workshops in Mexico for riskassessors.

By March 2007, formalize NABI intercessional conferencecalls as needed to discuss biotechnology issues ininternational organizations such as Asia-Pacific EconomicCooperation, Codex Alimentarius Commission, Organizationfor Economic Cooperation and Development and theConvention on Biological Diversity.



Health



Health: Completion of Protocols for Mutual Assistance and Support in a

Cross-Border EmergencyINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Draft and sign Canada-U.S.and U.S.-Mexico protocols formutual assistance and supportin a cross-border public healthemergency.*

The establishment of protocols in this area willpermit a seamless and efficient flow ofresources across our borders during a healthemergency. The exchange of liaison officersand emergency contact lists will permit early

rapid information sharing and help maintainmutual confidence during an emergency. Thetesting of protocols and efforts to addresslegal impediments such as licensurerequirements for the movement of humanresources across borders will help improvecoordination by identifying gaps, identifyinglessons learned, and hastening the flow ofmedical professionals during an emergency.

The completion of these initiatives will result inthe smoother, more efficient and more rapidflow of critical information during anemergency.

Establish a working group to identify liability and legal issuesregarding reciprocity that need to be worked out prior to theexchange of medical supplies and personnel during anemergency by March 2006.

Canada and the U.S. will exchange full-time liaison officersbetween national public health agencies and share emergencycontact lists by March 2006. Mexico will establishmechanisms for the exchange of liaison officers with bothCanada and the U.S.

Conduct quarterly drills to test 24/7/365 emergencycommunications protocols by March 2006.

Assess and implement plans for cross-border mass casualtycare, and create a portal for reciprocity of medical licensure byJune 2006.

Develop and sign bilateral information-sharing agreement onenforcement activities and emergencies by June 2006.



Health: A Healthier North AmericaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop a North Americanplan for pandemic influenza.*

The threat of an influenza pandemic requiresplanning and preparation by all threegovernments working together. Reaction andresponse to a pandemic requires cooperationand coordination at both a national and aninternational level to help minimize the healthimpact and the potential health effects onsociety, the economy and the health caresystem within an affected country.

Draft and complete a North American influenza plan by 2006.

Explore the feasibility of establishing a coordinated influenzaresearch agenda, including evaluating influenza immunizationprograms and tracking and updating the global inventory ofpandemic influenza vaccine clinical research projects over thenext 12 months.




Strengthen the Global HealthSecurity Initiative (GHSI).*

Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, by workingtogether and through fora like the GHSI, ourcountries can help better prepare for andrespond to an influenza pandemic. Throughthe use of existing multilateral forums onhealth security issues, we will achieve greaterinteroperability and harmony in ourpreparedness for acts of bioterrorism andpublic health emergencies.

Developing and assessing strategicapproaches to using vaccines and antiviraldrugs will help control and/or slow downevolving outbreaks of avian influenza inhumans. The harmonization of quarantine andtravel medicine approaches will reducediscrepancies between national responses

and facilitate both disease control and publiccommunications. The harmonization ofpolicies on bioterrorism preparedness willminimize any discrepancies in nationalapproaches and ensure common standardsacross North America.

By being able to react to a smallpox outbreakanywhere in North America, citizens will beprotected as part of a global community.

Over the next 9 months, use and build upon discussions inother forums (e.g. GHSI, World Health Organization) toimprove Canada-U.S. pandemic preparedness(e.g. develop and assess strategic approaches to usingvaccines and antiviral drugs).

Continue to conduct pandemic flu tabletop exercises.

Share information and develop common plans for quarantine,travel and isolation during a transborder infectious diseaseoutbreak by March 2006.

Plan and test 24/7/365 early warning case reportinginfrastructure and implement plans for infectious diseasecontrol and containment by June 2006.

Hold key workshops by June 2007 on:

- Plague and Tularemia- Detection of Bioterrorism Agents in the Environment- Phase II Smallpox- Early Warning Infectious Disease Surveillance.

Adopt common positions on guidance with regard to theinternational transport of diagnostic materials and samples byMarch 2006.

Finalize an operational framework for the management andimplementation of a global smallpox vaccine reserve (viaWorld Health Organization ad hoc Orthopox ExpertsCommittee) by June 2006.




Share information and lessonslearned in stockpile activities.*

By assisting Mexico in developing low-coststockpiles to meet specific national needs,overall North American emergencypreparedness will be improved.

Provide technical assistance to Mexico as it builds its reservesby March 2006.

Complete Canada-U.S. and Mexico-U.S. joint assessments ofthe stockpiling of vaccines and antidotes within 9 months andon an ongoing basis.

H l h A H l hi N h A i




Coordinate surveillance andlaboratory activities.*

Our efforts to coordinate surveillance andlaboratory activities will help ensure thatinformation and data are shared efficientlyand quickly at relatively low costs. This willcarry an immense benefit to science anddecision-making in Canada, Mexico and theUnited States. Greater information will help toaccelerate scientific advances, ultimately

leading to improved policies, programs andresponses to infectious disease events andoccurrences. Rather than reacting to adverseevents, these initiatives proactively addresschallenges regarding technology and itsapplications.

Our efforts to improve Web-based trainingprograms in lab biosafety and biosecurity in

Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear(CBRN) will permit skills development in alarger number of people in a shorter period oftime.

The increased control of dangerouspathogens will reduce the risk of intentionalacquisition and use of such pathogens.

Finalize U.S.-Canada Memorandum of Understanding relatedto sharing data for laboratory-based surveillance of infectiousdiseases and pathogens (PulseNet – a laboratory basedsurveillance system for infectious diseases) by March 2006.

Within the next 9-24 months, improve Canada-U.S.-Mexicoinfectious diseases surveillance systems, training andresponse systems:

- develop, evaluate and refine a Web-based chemical,biological and radiological nuclear training platformand system;

- examine the feasibility of a dangerous humanpathogens tracking and control system for monitoringthe movement of these agents within North America;

- explore mechanisms and protocols with a view to

creating an interoperable cross-border early warninginfectious diseases surveillance system;

- collaborate and develop protocols and procedureswith existing Laboratory Response Network (LRN)laboratories.

Provide ongoing support to Mexico over the next 36 monthsto:

- become a full member of the LRN;

- provide biosafety and laboratory training for infectiousdiseases personnel;

- build laboratory network capacity.

H lth A H lthi N th A i




Develop Web-based mappingof West Nile virus activity inCanada and the U.S.*

Locating, monitoring and learning more aboutWest Nile virus will help Canada and theUnited States better protect the health andsafety of their people through improvedpolicies and programs that protect residentsand visitors in both countries. Benefits andlessons from this valuable binationalendeavour will be transferred to other projects

that will contribute to the long-term quality oflife, prosperity and security of North America.

Develop and complete a Canada-U.S. mapping system byJune 2007.

Health: A Healthier North America




Extend efforts to preventalcohol abuse and suicideamong indigenous people andincrease research and sharingof knowledge about indigenouspeoples.

The incidence of alcohol abuse and suicideamong indigenous peoples in North Americais significantly higher than in the non-indigenous population. Our increased effortsaimed at preventing these health problemswill help improve the quality of life ofindigenous peoples and communities .

The health status of indigenous peoples inNorth America lags behind that of the non-indigenous population. Sharing knowledgeand experiences between North Americanpartners on indigenous health issues andinterventions will help address key topics ofconcern and work toward improving thequality of life of indigenous peoples across theregion. In the long run, healthier indigenous

peoples and communities will be able to morefully participate in the social, economic andcultural life of North America.

Develop and launch a Canada-U.S. Web site on SuicidePrevention and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) byJune 2006.

Over the next 36 months, Canada and the United States will:collaborate on a workshop on substance abuse, convene aninternational panel discussion on suicide prevention, andpresent key findings and results.

By June 2007, Canada and the United States will:

- complete a study tour on indigenous health systems;

- exchange information on approaches to health caredelivery;

- identify joint research projects and initiate a call for

proposals.Within the framework of their 2004 Letter of Intent, Canadaand Mexico will, within 24 months, identify joint priorities,organize workshops/seminars, and sign a plan of action tobuild greater cooperation on indigenous health issues.

The United States and Mexico will collaborate over the next 36months to develop workshops, information sharing andresearch projects related to Type 2 diabetes and indigenouspeoples.

Health: A Healthier North America




Identification and appropriateadoption of best practices inmaintaining the safety, efficacyand quality of pharmaceuticalproducts.

The implementation of best practices and theharmonization of technical standards for theregistration of pharmaceuticals promoteregulatory efficiencies and predictability.These activities also provide for a moreeconomical use of product developmentresources and the elimination of unnecessarydelays in the development and availability of

new medicines, while maintaining orimproving high standards for pharmaceuticals.

Evaluate best practices related to pharmaceutical reviewprocesses.

Examine the use of International Conference onHarmonization (ICH) guidelines and adopt best practices inmaintaining the safety, efficacy and quality of medicines withinthe next 36 months.

Establish a North Americanmechanism to facilitateinformation sharing on thesafety of pharmaceuticalproducts to protect and

advance public health in NorthAmerica.

This mechanism will facilitate the rapidsharing of information between regulatoryauthorities on pharmaceutical products thatmay pose a risk to human health and willenhance our ability to take coordinated

actions to safeguard the public health in NorthAmerica.

Information sharing procedures will be in place in 24 months.

* This is also part of the Security Agenda and Action Plan (under Bioprotection).





S ECURITY



SECURE NORTH AMERICA FROM EXTERNAL THREATS

TRAVELLER S ECURITY CARGO S ECURITY BIOPROTECTION





Traveller Security



Traveller Security: Develop and implement consistent outcomes with compatible processes fori i d f f i d h fi f N h A i



screening prior to departure from a foreign port and at the first port of entry to North America

INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES Develop and implementcompatible immigrationsecurity measures to enhanceNorth American security,including requirements foradmission and length of stay;visa decision-making

standards; lookout systems;and examining the feasibility ofentry and exit procedures andsystems.

A compatible visa process, includingconvergence of our visa-free travel programs,is an important tool to screen travellers beforethey embark for North America. We willsynthesize information and trend analysis inmaking decisions about visa-free travel toNorth America.

Coordinating bilateral efforts will detect anddisrupt illegal migration trends in their sourceand transit countries overseas.

Develop benchmarks related to procedures and policies forvisitor visa processing, including security screening, visavalidity, and length of stay within 9 months.

Direct and institutionalize consultation among consular andvisa security officials of Canada, the United States and Mexicowithin 9 months.

Coordinate the deployment of Canadian and U.S. immigrationofficers overseas to enhance efforts to disrupt illegal migrationtrends destined to North America within 21 months.

Develop a reciprocal mechanism to inform visa-free travelprogram country reviews within 12 months.

Work to ensure compatibility ofsystems to share data on high-risk travellers and examine thefeasibility of a real-timeinformation-sharing programon high-risk travellers toprovide for risk managementdecisions on travellersdestined to or transiting NorthAmerica.

In partnership with the transportation industry,we are working to identify and screen outhigh-risk travellers flying to and within NorthAmerica.

Finalize protocols and implementation of data exchanges onhigh-risk travellers using compatible advance passengerinformation systems within 12 months.

Canada and the United States to explore the feasibility of aprocess within 12 months that can make risk managementdecisions (board/no board) about travellers destined to ortransiting through North America.

Developing compatible criteria for the posting of lookouts ofsuspected terrorists and criminals within 9 months.



Cargo Security

Cargo Security: Develop and implement compatible screening methods for goods



Cargo Security: Develop and implement compatible screening methods for goodsand cargo prior to departure from a foreign port and at the first point of entry tonorth americaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop and expand upon our joint public-privatepartnerships to secure thesupply chain of goods arriving

in North America, and toexpedite the movement of low-risk goods within NorthAmerica.

Our supply chain will be better secured byleveraging the skills and resources of theprivate sector, while concurrently streamliningthe movement of low-risk goods.

Develop targets to increase percentage of FAST/Expresshipments at agreed upon FAST/Expres locations, including

joint marketing activities within 12 months and annuallythereafter.

Make compatible U.S.-Canada requirements for participationin Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT)and Partnership in Protection (PIP) within 36 months.

Cargo Security: Develop and implement compatible screening methods for goodsd g i t d t f f ig t d t th fi t i t f t t



and cargo prior to departure from a foreign port and at the first point of entry to

north americaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop compatible standards,technologies and processesfor intermodal supply chainsecurity that emphasize riskmanagement, a layered

approach to supply chainsecurity, and the expeditedmovement of low-riskcommerce.

Working together, we will increase theeffectiveness of screening goods enteringNorth America through a wide range ofinitiatives to better target high-risk cargo whilemoving other shipments more quickly.

Evaluate within 6 months and seek to expand within 18months the use of E-manifest.

Develop recommendations for compatible risk targeting andinspection regimes for cargo arriving by air, land and sea

within 18 months.

Within 6 months, initiate a five-year Canada-U.S. program towork toward harmonization of automated commercialinformation systems, including advance interdepartmentalreporting and the “single window” concept for othergovernment departments’ and agencies’ requirements.

Develop and implement a U.S.-Mexico cargo initiative thatincludes the implementation of the 24-hour rule, exchange ofcargo manifest data, and joint security targeting.

Develop appropriate linkages, including officer exchangesamong Canadian, Mexican and U.S. customs agencies, toensure analysis of cargo data and appropriate sharing ofinformation on high-risk shipments.

Within 18 months of adoption, promote the implementation ofthe World Customs Organization Framework of Standards toSecure and Facilitate Global Trade through capacity buildingand technical assistance for lesser developed customsadministrations.

Cargo Security: Develop and implement compatible screening methods for goodsand cargo prior to departure from a foreign port and at the first point of entry to



and cargo prior to departure from a foreign port and at the first point of entry to

north americaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Ensure compatible nationaland international export controlsystems and ensure that NorthAmerican countries are notused to divert sensitive

American, Canadian orMexican goods or technologiesto mutually agreed uponprohibited countries or end-users.

We are committed to preventing sensitivetechnologies and goods from falling into thewrong hands and are directing efforts toenforce applicable laws while supportingsecure and vigorous trade.

Establish a formal mechanism for ongoing dialogue on dual-use export control issues, including export control standardswithin 12 months.

Develop a plan to enhance export control compliance

outreach within 12 months.

Assess options to make more compatible U.S. and Canadianexport controls including issues of fraudulent transshipment orillicit diversion of “controlled” goods within 21 months.

U.S. and Mexico will develop and implement a system within 9months to identify subject goods through their mechanism toexchange/cross-check data on southbound and northboundshipments.

Develop and phase in a plan tocontrol the import and exportof nuclear and radioactivematerials consistent with IAEAradioactive source guidelines.

Protecting North America’s residents frommisuse of high-risk nuclear and radiologicalmaterials is important for all threegovernments. Together we are working tobetter control the movement of these high-riskmaterials in, through and out of NorthAmerica.

Within 18 months, implement import-export controls onradioactive sources including notification on cross-bordertransfers, ensuring that these materials are used for peacefulpurposes only (U.S.-Canada to implement consistent with G-8commitments).

Over the next 36 months, complete installation of radiationdetection equipment at major commercial and passenger portsof entry into North America to prevent the smuggling ofnuclear/radiological materials.



Bioprotection

Bioprotection: Develop and implement a North American bioprotection strategy to assess,



prevent, protect, detect and respond to intentional as well as applicable naturally occurringthreats to public health and the food and agriculture systemINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Undertake joint threat andvulnerability assessments and

joint exercises within the publichealth and the food andagriculture systems.

In order to best protect our citizens againstthreats to our public health, food andagriculture systems, we must identifyvulnerabilities to these systems.

Within 30 months, share current threat and vulnerabilityassessment methodology and overview information for thefood and agriculture systems, and undertake joint threat andvulnerability assessments where there are gaps or areaswhere improvement or greater clarity are required.

Through ongoing testing and exercises, implement within 18months Continuity of Operation plans for infectious diseasecontrol and containment.

Draft and sign protocols formutual assistance andcoordination in a cross-borderemergency.

Mutual assistance and support in a cross-border public health emergency will enhanceour combined resources and expertise toprotect our citizens in a more timely andappropriate manner.

Draft and sign protocols for mutual assistance and supportwithin 24 months to maximize our abilities to respond to cross-border public health emergencies by providing a framework forthe orderly deployment of emergency assistance.

Share plans within 9 months for isolation and quarantineduring a transborder infectious disease outbreak.

Within 12 months, examine the feasibility of a tracking andcontrol system for monitoring the movement of dangeroushuman pathogens within North America.

Within 9 months, adopt a common position on guidance tointernational transport organizations regarding the transport ofdiagnostic materials and samples.

Bioprotection: Develop and implement a North American bioprotection strategy to assess,prevent, protect, detect and respond to intentional as well as applicable naturally occurring



p p p pp y gthreats to public health and the food and agriculture systemINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Share strategies for thestockpiling and distribution ofhuman and animalcountermeasures.

We will be better prepared to provide ourcitizens with vaccines and antidotes whenneeded.

Within 6 months, complete evaluation of the number of animalvaccine doses our countries should stockpile.

Work cooperatively within multilateral health forums to finalizeoperational frameworks and the implementation of globalsmallpox vaccine reserves within 9 months.

Work in a coordinated fashionto implement a regime toidentify, assess and mitigatethe risk of intentional threats toour animals, plants and foodproducts into and within NorthAmerica.

Developing a coordinated strategy to mitigatethreats to the animal, plant and food supplywill enhance the safety and reliability of ourfood supply.

Within 24 months, develop a coordinated strategy to identifyand manage threats to our food supply and agriculturalsectors, building upon successful customs processes andconsistent with each country’s legislation, and, within 9months, share approaches to determining risk from importedfoods.

Develop information-sharingagreements on enforcementactivities and emergencies.

Developing protocols gives us the necessarytools to identify, prevent and respond tothreats to public health and our agri-foodsystems in their early stages.

Within 24 months, identify and address impediments toinformation exchanges.

Within 9 months, develop mechanisms and criteria to provideearly notification of recalls of products that may pose healthrisks.

Within 24 months, improve trilateral procedures to shareinformation in a timely fashion during food and agricultureemergencies.

Plan and test binational infrastructure for 24/7/365 earlywarning case reporting.

Bioprotection: Develop and implement a North American bioprotection strategy to assess,prevent, protect, detect and respond to intentional as well as applicable naturally occurring



threats to public health and the food and agriculture systemINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Enhance human, animal, andplant health surveillance bydeveloping interoperablesystems to rapidly detect andmonitor infectious diseases inthese populations.

Strengthening interoperability of our publichealth surveillance systems throughout ourthree countries will give us the tools to morerapidly respond to and avert the furtherspread of infectious diseases.

Within 9 months, launch a workshop on cross-border earlywarning infectious disease surveillance to share solutions tocommon problems and exchange best practices.

Within 12 months, develop a North American plan to addresspandemic influenza.

Exchange information regarding research and evaluation ofpandemic influenza clinical trials within 12 months.

Enhance public healthsurveillance research bylinking public healthlaboratories within North

America and with food andagriculture laboratorynetworks.

By facilitating the communications betweenpublic health and food & agriculturelaboratories, we will significantly enhance ouroverall health surveillance capabilities which

will allow us to more effectively detect, deterand/or respond to potential health threats.

Within 6 months, assess current laboratory infrastructure forelectronic data-sharing capabilities.

Enhance communication and cooperation among the three

countries’ laboratories within 21 months.

Explore protocols toward creating early warning infectiousdisease surveillance systems that are interoperable along andacross our shared borders within 24 months.



PREVENT AND RESPOND TO THREATS WITHIN NORTH AMERICA

AVIATION S ECURITY MARITIME S ECURITY LAW ENFORCEMENT COOPERATION INTELLIGENCE COOPERATION P ROTECTION , P REVENTION AND RESPONSE



Aviation Security

Aviation Security: Develop and implement a strategy to establish equivalenth i i i f N h A i



approaches to aviation security for North AmericaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop, test, evaluate andimplement a plan to establishcomparable aviationpassenger screening, and thescreening of baggage and aircargo.

Establishing comparable standards forscreening passengers, baggage and cargostrengthens and better coordinates thesecurity of North American airspace and airtravellers.

Conclude a trilateral memorandum of cooperation within 12months to formalize the role of the North American AviationTrilateral (NAAT) in achieving the trilateral civil aviationsecurity goals in the Security and Prosperity Partnership.

Develop comparable operational procedures and trainingstandards for government law enforcement officers acting inthe capacity of In-Flight Security Officers in North Americawithin 6 months.

Within 36 months, improve the security of cargo transportedon passenger and cargo aircraft through comparablescreening and inspection protocols for inbound and outboundgoods, and explore implementing an interoperable KnownShippers Data Base.

Develop comparable standards and procedures within 24months for hold baggage screening.

Develop comparable standards and procedures within 24months for passenger screening to increase aviation security.

For aviation security purposes, each country has developed, isdeveloping or may develop its own passenger assessment(no-fly) program for use on flights within, to or from thatcountry to ensure that persons who pose a threat to aviationare monitored or denied boarding, within 24 months.



Maritime Security

Maritime Security: Develop and implement a strategy to enhance North Americanmaritime transportation and port security



maritime transportation and port securityINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Collaborate in theenhancement of security of ourports and vessels through theconduct of equivalent threat,vulnerability and riskassessments and mutuallyrecognized audit programs.

Our measures aim to identify and stop threatsbefore they arrive in our North Americanwaters and ensure that legitimate marinecargo is expeditiously managed upon itsarrival at a North American port.

Develop strategies for information sharing to create effectivevessel and port facility security measures and harmonize theirimplementation within 9 months.

Develop compatible strategies for the implementation of theInternational Ship and Port Security (ISPS) Code andcorresponding national regulations for security of offshore andat-sea infrastructure within 21 months.

Develop a port and facility security audit program to benchmarksecurity standards of North American and international facilitiesas well as for vessels that receive or carry international shippingwithin 9 months.

Create a coordinating capability within 33 months to respond to

maritime incidents and minimize the impact on maritimecommerce.

Maritime Security: Develop and implement a strategy to enhance North Americanmaritime transportation and port security



INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES Develop and implement a planto make compatible regulatoryand operational maritimesecurity regimes.

Creating a compatible maritime regulatoryenvironment ensures a consistent approach tovessels and cargo destined to and withinNorth American waters.

Identify improvements to national and international regulatoryframeworks within 21 months to enhance the security of themaritime transportation system, and develop a coordinatedstrategy to maintain and expand compatible national regulatoryregimes and programs for private, commercial, pleasure andfishing vessels.

Implement strategies for long-range tracking of vessels andenhanced coastal tracking of small vessels on internationalvoyages within 33 months.

Develop strategies for enhanced coordination of global maritimesecurity intelligence efforts within 24 months.

Develop a collaborative approach within 12 months in dealingwith each country’s flag vessels calling at one of the other

countries’ ports.



Law Enforcement Cooperation

Law Enforcement Cooperation: Develop and implement a strategy for combattingtransnational threats to the United States, Canada and Mexico



transnational threats to the United States, Canada and MexicoINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA Key Milestones

Improve information sharingand law enforcementcooperation amonginvestigators and prosecutorsto address illegal activitiesbetween ports of entry andcross-border organized crime,counterfeit goods, economiccrimes, and trafficking ofalcohol, firearms, illegal drugsand explosives.

Mexico, Canada and the United States are allaffected by criminal organizations operatingwith disregard to national borders. All threenations will benefit from more effectiveinvestigation and subsequent prosecution ofthose criminal elements. The ability tocooperate more effectively, from simplyenhancing information sharing to developingcompatible procedures, will reduce violence inour communities and along the border andresult in a more secure North America.

Enhanced cooperation between our countrieswill advance our efforts to eliminate humantrafficking, combat organized crime, and

address the illegal movement of narcotics,dangerous chemicals and materials, andfirearms.

Identify recommendations within 21 months to addresssignificant legal restrictions to the sharing of investigativeinformation.

Undertake coordinated law enforcement efforts and improveinformation sharing to address financial crime and tradetransparency within 24 months.

Evaluate the co-location of Canada-U.S. Integrated BorderEnforcement Team (IBET) analysts in four pilot sites within 12months.

Continue vigorous U.S. and Mexican cooperation amongimmigration and fugitive arrest authorities as appropriate.Utilize the U.S.-Mexican Temporary Extradition Protocol for

fugitives sought for prosecution in both jurisdictions within 21months.

Within 24 months, assess the threat and risk of criminal andterrorist activities on the St. Lawrence Seaway – Great Lakessystems and develop coordinated maritime law enforcementprograms with a specific interest in interdictingsmugglers/traffickers and ensuring border security.

Within 18 months, form Mexico-U.S. intelligence-sharing taskforce pilots to target cross-border criminal activity, in particularcriminal gang and trafficking organization networks.

Within 18 months, enhance the international liaison officernetwork to facilitate intelligence sharing and analysis, and toassist competent authorities in criminal and securityinvestigations.

Law Enforcement Cooperation: Develop and implement a strategy for combattingtransnational threats to the United States, Canada and Mexico



INITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA Key MilestonesWithin 3 months, agree to seven specific Mexico-U.S.programs for the exchange of information to enable thedetection and dismantling of criminal organizations engaged insexual or labour exploitation, especially of children or women.

Within 18 months, develop mutually supportive lawenforcement mechanisms that lead to the rapid identificationand successful prosecution of cyber-attackers.

Review existing counter-terrorism efforts andcoordination to maximizeeffectiveness, includinganalyzing past counter-terrorism investigations toidentify best practices andlessons learned.

Addresses known vulnerabilities that pose asignificant terrorist threat to each country’snational security and protects the citizens ofeach nation through an integratedcomprehensive North American response.

Develop a comprehensive trilateral law enforcement strategywithin 12 months to respond to any transnational terroristincident in North America.

Enhance cooperation on terrorist financing, seeking tocomplete ratification of the OAS Convention Against Terrorismwithin 18 months.

Cooperate on issues ofdetention and removals toexpedite the return of illegalmigrants to their homecountries.

Ensures that communities are safe fromterrorists, dangerous criminals and gangmembers through an expedited removalprocess and contributes to the integrity of ourrespective immigration programs.

Cooperate in obtaining travel documents from uncooperativecountries for the return of their nationals.

Renegotiate the U.S.-Canada Reciprocal Agreement for theExchange of Deportees within 18 months.

Expand Canada-U.S. joint removals operations.



Intelligence Cooperation

Intelligence Cooperation: Enhance partnerships on intelligence related toNorth American security




Enhance our capacity tocombat terrorism through theappropriate sharing of terroristwatchlist data and theestablishment of appropriatelinkages between Canada, the

United States and Mexico.

Effective sharing of intelligence and otherinformation strengthens our capability todetect, deter and prevent acts of terrorismwithin and outside North America.

The three countries will negotiate bilateral terrorist screeninginformation-sharing agreements.

Explore means to address and resolve gaps in cross-borderinformation-sharing channels.

Conduct joint analyses of the nature and scope of the terroristthreat to North America, to include the identification of areas ofmutual concern and interdependency for analyticalconsideration within 9 months.



Protection, Prevention and Response

Protection, Prevention and Response: Develop and implement a common approachto critical infrastructure protection and response to cross-border terrorist incidents



and, as applicable, natural disastersINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop and implementcompatible protective andresponse strategies andprograms for shared critical

infrastructure in mutuallyagreed priority areas (i.e.electricity generation anddistribution, oil and gaspipelines, dams,telecommunications,transportation, nuclear,radiological, defence industrialbase, and cyber systems).

Protection of integrated North Americaninfrastructures is crucial to the daily operationof our respective communities and nationaleconomies.

Increasing the security stance of theseinfrastructures protects them from intentionalmalicious attack, which ensures that thegoods and services that they furnish continueto be available to all our citizens.

Within 18 months, develop vulnerability assessmentprocedures and methodologies that are mutually acceptable.

Over the next two years, prioritize critical infrastructure assets

requiring vulnerability assessments, identify resources andbegin conducting coordinated assessments.

Facilitate among governments and critical infrastructureoperators the sharing of best practices.

Protection, Prevention and Response: Develop and implement a common approachto critical infrastructure protection and response to cross-border terrorist incidentsand, as applicable, natural disasters



ppINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Develop and implement jointplans for cooperation onincident response, and conduct

joint training and exercises inemergency response.

Coordinated incident response plans willsignificantly enhance the three countries’ability to protect our citizens, minimize lossand damage to life and property, and restorebasic services and commerce.

Initiate planning within 6 months for a preparedness exerciseto be conducted in advance of the 2010 Winter Olympics inVancouver/Whistler.

Develop a plan within 12 months to strengthen mechanismsfor communicating and coordinating emergency response,including protocols for mutual assistance and cooperation inthe event of natural and technological/industrial disasters ormalicious acts.

Within 12 months, participate in coordinated joint training andexercise programs leading to full-scale exercises.

Within 12 months, develop an interoperable communicationsystem to ensure appropriate coordination for Canada, U.S.

and Mexico involving cross-border incident management.

Within 12 months, develop coordinated business resumptionprotocols at the border in the event of a disaster and/or anincreased alert level.

Improve coordination of efforts in regional and multilateralforums within 18 months to strengthen incident responsegoals in cyber-security.

Share plans within 6 months to communicate with privatetransportation interests to provide timely updates in the eventof incidents.



FURTHER STREAMLINE THE SECURE MOVEMENT OF LOW-RISK TRAFFIC ACROSS OUR SHARED BORDERS

BORDER FACILITATION S CIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COOPERATION



Border Facilitation



Border Facilitation: build capacity and improve the legitimate flow of people andcargo at ports of entry within North AmericaINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES



Convert SENTRI lanes to NEXUS lanes at U.S.-Mexico borderports of entry within 18 months.

Complete a review of our transportation and border facilityneeds and identify priorities within 24 months, and then inpartnership with state and provincial partners, develop animplementation plan to prioritize future infrastructureinvestments by 2008.

Work with the private sector,states and provinces, as wellas local governments, toconstruct new borderinfrastructure to meet long-term demand, to includebuilding a low-risk port of entryto expedite the securemovement of cargo across theborder.

Expanding border infrastructure will maximizethe potential of current low-risk programs suchas FAST, NEXUS and SENTRI. It will alsobetter support the increased trade resultingfrom NAFTA and will expedite the securityprocessing of all cross-border trade andtravel.

Begin construction of additional FAST/Expres lanes inNogales, AZ – Nogales, SON within 6 months.

Within 24 months, investigate the feasibility of a pilot programto convert an existing port of entry in Texas to the exclusiveuse of low-risk cargo and passengers, as well as considerbuilding a new low-risk port of entry pilot at Otay Mesa.

Within 12 months, complete feasibility study of extendingFAST/Expres to air and sea modes to provide expeditedsecurity processing at the first port of entry into North Americaof identified low-risk shipments.



Science and Technology Cooperation: Identify, develop and deploy new

technologies to advance our shared security goals and promote



technologies to advance our shared security goals and promotethe legitimate flow of people and goods across our bordersINITIATIVE HOW IT BENEFITS NORTH AMERICA KEY MILESTONES

Continue incorporating hi-techequipment along the U.S.-Mexico border for the efficient

and secure flow of people andgoods, and continue identifyingappropriate sites for itsdeployment.

Leveraging our respective scientific andtechnological expertise toward innovativesolutions makes our border more efficient and

secure.

Identify and assess possible technology-based solutions fortightening border security and facilitating low-risk travel atNorth America’s external border.

Hold a workshop on the topic of agricultural terrorismaddressing issues including food security across borders andresearch associated with foreign animal disease (e.g. foot andmouth disease).

Establish a joint research anddevelopment program forsecurity-related science andtechnology based on prioritiesestablished through acoordinated risk assessment.

Harnessing the science and engineeringresources of Canada and the United Stateshelps create the innovative technologycapabilities required to enhance the safetyand security of both nations.

Through the Canada-U.S. Public Security Technical Program(PSTP), cooperate in public safety-related research,development, testing, evaluation and deployment oftechnologies.

Approve and implement cooperative projects that addressprioritized technology gaps for border security, biosecurity,critical infrastructure protection and counter-terrorism.

Documents

Security and prosperity partnership Security and Prosperity Partnership Report to Leaders