Asia-Pacific

Canada, US bolster cooperation on aviation security

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-01-30 17:48

OTTAWA: Canadian Minister of Public Safety Vic Toews and Transport Minister John Baird met here Friday with Jane Holl Lute, US deputy secretary of Homeland Security, to promote the cooperation and coordination between the two neighboring countries on aviation security measures and standards.

They also explored ways to enhance global aviation security to protect passengers around the world following the attempted bombing of a US flight on December 25, 2009.

"Canada is a full partner with the United States in securing aviation in North America," said Toews, "It is important that we continue to work together to develop and implement effective and complementary measures and standards to ensure the safety and security of our citizens."

Baird said that the Canadian government will continue to work with the United States to develop and implement effective and efficient measures to keep the two countries safe. "We will remain vigilant to the threat of terrorism and unwavering in our determination to safeguard our national transportation system."

"The United States and Canada are committed to working with all international partners to improve information sharing and enhance screening procedures while protecting the privacy of the global traveling public," said Lute.

Canada continues to take additional steps relating to air security in order to mitigate identified threats.

Canada has invested in new technologies by purchasing full-body scanners. It has also announced its intention to implement a new security measure, the Passenger Behaviour Observation Program, in order to respond to the continued threat of terrorism and modern terrorist methods.