Ties that Bind: Canada/U.S. International Security Cooperation

Moderated by Dr. Richard Friedman, this panel featured four experts on the importance of U.S.-Canadian relations in the national security of both nations.

From June 18, 1812 to February 16, 1815, the United States was at war with Britain. Canada, the American Northwest and the Great Lakes region was the battleground. The war confirmed American sovereignty and enabled it to take its place among the world’s sovereign nations. The events also set the stage for the emergence of an independent Canada, paving the way for confederation fifty years later. The peace showed North Americans that two distinct nations can share the longest undefended and secured border in the world, with disputes settled at the negotiating table, not on the battlefield.

Post-War of 1812, Canada has been the best friend of the U.S. in matters of trade, energy, and border protection. This mutual affection among the people of our two nations, and the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, are being commemorated as the navies of our two countries sail together throughout Great lakes ports, visiting Chicago August 15th-20th. We will examine the broad U.S. / Canada relationship with emphasis on national security-related matters. The focus of this discussion addresses the topics mentioned above as well as the future economic and trade challenges that lie ahead for both countries. 

Panelists:

• Ambassador Gary Doer - Canadian Ambassador to the United States
• Commodore Darren Hawco D.C., MSM, CD - Commander, Atlantic Fleet, Royal Canadian Navy
• Ambassador David Jacobson - U.S. Ambassador to Canada
• RADM Gregory M. Nosal, USN - Commander, Carrier Strike Group Two
• RADM Michael N. Parks, USCG - Commander, Ninth Coast Guard District

This program was sponsored by the Canadian Consulate in Chicago in partnership with the National Strategy Forum.