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AEDNews - Construction Equipment Industry NewsU.S. and Canada Issue Action Plans for Improved Infrastructure and Regulatory CooperationOn Dec. 7, President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced a U.S.-Canadian agreement to implement two action plans designed to speed up legitimate trade and travel, improve security in North America, and align regulatory approaches between the two countries. The Action Plan on Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness focuses on improving infrastructure security and facilitating trade. The plan calls for developing a joint Border Infrastructure Investment Plan that will ensure funding for important investments in physical infrastructure to facilitate surface transportation and reduce congestion at border crossings. Examples of joint infrastructure projects include upgrades to many customs plazas for additional inspection lanes and booths, as well as expanded and new roads, highways, and bridges to connect the countries. The two leaders also unveiled the Action Plan on Regulatory Cooperation to reduce trade barriers and create economic cooperation by aligning regulatory approaches in several areas, including transportation, agriculture, and the environment. Given the integrated nature of U.S. and Canadian relations, breaking down regulatory barriers between the two countries will make it easier for firms and manufacturers to invest and do business on both sides of the border. The agreements are a continuation of the ongoing Beyond the Border initiative announced by Obama and Harper earlier this year to enhance cross-border cooperation. Article Date: 2011-12-12 Source: Associated Equipment Distributors Copyright(C) 2011 Associated Equipment Distributors. All Rights Reserved. | ||||||
