The roads that join us

Getting more attention in media and blog circles is the planned "superhighway" system that is part of the strategic integration of North America outlined by the the Strategic and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) agreement entered into by the three nations almost two years ago. The initiative is designed to remove impediments to trade on the north-south axis throughout the continent. Expect the debate about the NAFTA Super Corridor plan will begin to bring special interest voices against this economic strategic plan, which is detailed at the North America’s SuperCorridor Coalition web site: http://www.nascocorridor.com/pages/about/about.htm . Policymakers in all three countries will be well served if business interests outline integrated transportation solutions that improve our competitiveness in the global economy. The NASCO 2007 Conference in Fort Worth, Texas this spring is an encouraging example of this business initiative.

The battle for a North America Union

The fear of North America Union found voice in Lou Dobbs and his fear mongering again (See link to CNN video). The negative tone of his report is indicative of what policy makers will face as the North American integration initiative develops. It will be a grand battle that will tear at the souls of a generation of Americans, Canadians, and Mexicans. And it will await the voice of a bold leadership.

North American unity is an important issue, and it will make Manifest Destiny a valiant call again. But first the population must understand what is at stake. Without integration the United States, Canada, and Mexico will suffer economically. There is strength in unity - of resources, of people, and of values. Let free markets and liberty prevail and great wealth will come to our land. Yes, there will be cultural growing pains with this communion of people - all brought together in the spirit of the Union. But the fear of differences must be overcome by our commonality. Just as our North American nations have thrived thanks to generations of immigrants who came to this distant and strange land, the union of North American peoples will unleash new hope for all. Isolation is not an option. Borders are chains on our prosperity.

Fear and harmony

The cultural fears that handicap the natural forces of trade and globalization are strong. Immigration stands as one of those issues that exposes our fears, fears that come out as racism and protectionist rant. As always, politicians will be beholden to the loud voices of fear. In Utah, a state congressman has introduced a bill to restrict or retract the partnership agreement President Bush, Prime Minister Harper, and the former Mexican President Fox entered last year.

See http://www.immigrationwatchdog.com/?p=2819

The idea of continental harmonization of trade and security is seen as threatening to nationalists who seem less concerned about prosperity through increased trade and security. Prosperity only comes through the attainment of security and the growth of trade. Short of choking off trade with our continental neighbours, there is no way to secure our borders without harmonization. North America must come to terms with its diversity and develop institutions of inclusion that allow the growth of economic liberty. Borders restrict that liberty. It is highly encouraging that our leaders recognize this. Let us hope that they can enlighten the population and deter the kind of fear-based reaction represented by this bill.