BG–04.041 - April 1, 2006
The tragic events of September 11, 2001 prompted Canadian and United States officials to discuss means of improving the safety and security of citizens of both countries. One result of the these discussions was the creation of a Bi-National Planning Group (BPG) in 2002, with an agreement signed by then Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs and the U.S. Secretary of State.
Established for a period of two years, and later extended until May, 2006, the BPG’s purpose was to enhance bi-national military planning, surveillance and support to civil authorities.
The BPG comprised about 50 Canadian and U.S. military and civilian personnel working side-by-side, encompassing significant military experience. They had unrestricted access to those involved in the Canada-U.S. defence relationship and were not governed by the day to day crises that require constant attention from commanders. As such, the BPG was able to “take a bird’s eye view” and make objective recommendations on how best to enhance Canada-U.S. defence cooperation, to better protect the people and economies of Canada and the U.S.
As an independent organization, the BPG operated alongside NORAD at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, to take advantage of existing infrastructure and proven capabilities and expertise.
The BPG was created in response to the Canada-U.S. desire to prevent and mitigate threats or attacks by terrorists or other parties against either country, and to ensure a well-coordinated response to national requests for military assistance in times of disaster or emergency by:
Over the course of its mandate, the BPG had a significant impact on Canada-U.S. defence and security cooperation. Some of its achievements are outlined below.
For a copy of the Bi-National Planning Group’s Final Report to Foreign Affairs Canada and the U.S. Department of State, please access the following websites:
RSS DND/CF News (What is RSS?)