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Canada and Ballistic Missile Defence

By Jay Makarenko

Updated: March 1, 2005

During his visit to Canada in November 2004, US President George W. Bush left Prime Minister Paul Martin and his minority Liberal government with a political ‘hot potato, when Bush publicly encouraged Canada to actively participate in the US-planned ballistic missile defence system. Bush put the Martin government in an awkward position, particularly as polls showed a majority of Canadians to be against the Bush Administration’s plans to press on with the development of a ballistic missile defence (BMD) system. The President’s statement brought to the fore key issues for debate in Canada, including concerns about continental security, Canada-US relations, and the so-called ‘weaponization’ of space.

In February 2005, despite earlier indications that suggested Canada might take part in ballistic missile defence, the Martin government announced that Canada would not be participating in the BMD program.

The Martin government’s decision not to participate in missile defence was shrouded in some controversy, both in the way the decision was revealed by the Government, and also for its potential impact on Canada-US relations. At the time of this writing, it remains unclear what the exact impact of the Government’s decision will be in this regard.

This Spotlight provides background on Canada and US ballistic missile defence. Specific topics include:

A Primer on Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)

Information on ballistic missiles, ballistic missile defence, and the backstory pertaining to missile defence.

Canada and US Discussions on Ballistic Missile Defence

An historical overview of talks between Canada and the United States on BMD.

Why Did Canada Enter into Negotiations?

An overview of the official position of the Canadian government on why it entered into negations on ballistic missile defence.

Canadian Views on Ballistic Missile Defence

A review of various Canadian perspectives on ballistic missile defence.

Canada’s Decision Not to Join

An overview of PM Martin’s decision not to join ballistic missile defence.

 

US Reaction to Canada’s Decision Not to Join

An overview of US statements prior to the Martin government’s decision not to participate in BMD plans, and the Bush Administration’s response.

 

Important Links

List of relevant links for further information.  

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