Prime Minister announces temporary border agreement with the United States

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Ragini Joshi
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Prime Minister announces temporary border agreement with the United States

COVID-19 continues to evolve rapidly, and the Government of Canada is working around the clock to limit its spread and do everything necessary to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced on March 18 that Canada and the United States have agreed to temporarily restrict all non-essential travel across the Canada-U.S. border, which will take effect at midnight tonight.

This collaborative and reciprocal measure between Canada and the United States will restrict non-essential travel across the border, including for tourism and recreation. Canadian and American citizens and permanent residents who are currently visiting each other’s country can still return home.

All essential and business travel will continue unimpeded. Both governments recognize the importance of preserving vital supply chains between our two countries. These supply chains ensure that food, fuel, and life-saving medicines continue to reach people on both sides of the border.

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This announcement is another step in the government’s strong response to the COVID-19 virus. We will continue to take important meaures based on science, to prioritize the health and safety of Canadians, ensure the capacity of our health care system, support international and domestic efforts, and mitigate the economic impacts on Canadians and Canadian business.

Quotes

“With COVID-19 continuing to spread, the health and safety of Canadians is our top priority. Canada and the United States have agreed to work together for the protection of our people and our economies. Together we will continue to work collaboratively and make the necessary sacrifices to fight this pandemic.”

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“The United States is an important friend, ally, and economic partner. These temporary measures will enable us to protect the health and safety of Canadians, while ensuring the continued flow of critical supplies, people, and infrastructure between our two countries.”

The Hon. Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

“This agreement will help support our public health response to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Canada. We continue to work closely with our American allies to ensure the safety of citizens on both sides of the border.”

The Hon. Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health

“Workers in the trade and transportation sector, such as truck drivers and crew on any aircraft, train or marine vessel, are key to ensuring the continued movement of goods and delivery of essential services throughout the integrated supply chains that are critical to Canada and the United States.”

The Hon. Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport

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