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U.S., Canada extend customs pre-clearance to all transportation modes

Xinhua, March 17, 2015 Adjust font size:

The United States and Canada on Monday signed an agreement to extend customs pre-clearance from the existing aero crossings to all modes of transportation, including rail, land and water crossings.

Under the agreement signed by U.S. Homeland Security chief Jeh Johnson and Canadian Public Safety Minister Steven Blaney, U.S. and Canadian border officials would be able to work on the other's territory to inspect the goods or people seeking entry. The deal will lessen congestion and delays at the borders and enhance the efficiency and predictability in travel and tourism, said a Homeland Security Department press release.

"This agreement will help facilitate the legitimate trade and travel that keeps our economy thriving as we maintain utmost vigilance to the security of our borders," said Johnson at a joint press conference with Blaney.

The agreement was the outcome of a 2011 initiative led by leaders of both countries and the ultimate implementation still requires the approval of lawmakers in both countries. Endite