Protecting Against Protectionism

A few days ago, I raised the question of whether America's promise that its "Buy America" provisions in its stimulus package will "be applied in a manner consistent with United States obligations under international agreements" should satisfy Canada.

Well, it seems that trade Minister Stockwell Day is happy. David Akin provides more detail. Minister Day says:

If the bill in its final form which is presented to the President, if it has the language that says clearly from the President's point of view that nothing in that agreement should in any way violate their international agreements with us or with anyone else, then that will be some comfort to us.

Does this mean "mission accomplished"? Does this mean that we can all breathe easier now, knowing how deeply committed the US Congress is to international law and free trade? (As if!)

Fortunately, Prime Minister Harper seems to be a bit more skeptical.

Let's see what unfolds with President Obama's visit to Canada this week.

HK