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News Release
Canada and United States Amend NORAD Agreement
NR 04.058 - August 5, 2004
OTTAWA – Minister of National Defence Bill Graham and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pierre Pettigrew today announced that the Government is amending the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) agreement with the United States. The amendment authorizes NORAD to make its missile warning function — a role it has been performing for the last 30 years — available to the U.S. commands conducting ballistic missile defence.
"Through our work in NORAD, Canada has been a full and committed partner in the defence of North America," said Mr. Graham. "Over the years, NORAD has made a vital contribution to the defence of Canada and the security of Canadians."
"It makes good sense to amend the agreement so that this essential NORAD function can be preserved and Canada can continue to benefit from the security it provides to our citizens," stated Mr. Pettigrew. "This amendment safeguards and sustains NORAD regardless of what decision the Government of Canada eventually takes on ballistic missile defence." He added that Canada's decision on missile defence will be taken when bilateral negotiations with the U.S. are completed, and with the input of Parliament.
An amendment to the NORAD agreement will preserve the institution's existing missile warning function after the U.S. missile defence system is deployed this fall. Canada has a long and successful history of security and defence cooperation with the U.S. The Government's decision to amend the NORAD agreement ensures that NORAD remains the cornerstone of the Canada-U.S. defence relationship, and that Canadian defence and security interests continue to be addressed.
Established in 1958, NORAD is a binational organization responsible for the aerospace defence of North America. As part of this mission, NORAD detects and warns both governments of attacks by aircraft or missiles. For almost half a century, NORAD has adapted and evolved to address emerging threats. This amendment will ensure that NORAD remains ready to defend Canada in a changing security environment.
The text of the amendment is available at:
http://www.fac-aec.gc.ca/department/note_0095-en.asp
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Sébastien Théberge |
Isabelle Savard |
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