Ontario Outlines Plans for Cross-Border Security Under Fortress Am-Can

Operation Deterrence and other Canada-US efforts

Recent efforts under Operation Deterrence, a provincial framework designed to enhance border security, have already disrupted cross-border criminal activity. This includes the deployment of 200 specialized officers and collaboration with Canadian and American agencies such as the RCMP and the US Drug Enforcement Administration.

Under Operation Deterrence, which was launched earlier this month, Ontario has intensified its efforts to curb illegal activities at the border, including human trafficking and drug smuggling.

These measures complement ongoing joint initiatives, such as the Ontario provincial police’s Border Drug Interdiction Task Force, which involves collaboration with multiple agencies on both sides of the border.

“Ontario has stepped up at a critical time to support the federal government and international interests; but we need the federal government to also step up with stronger measures that will keep our borders and communities secure,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner in the government's Fortress Am-Can release.

Strengthening trade and innovation

The Fortress Am-Can plan also underscores the increased role of economic collaboration in bolstering security.

Ontario has proposed expanding the Am-Can energy and electricity grid, including nuclear energy, to increase Canadian exports to the US. It also highlights Ontario’s advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, positioning the province as a leader in using AI to develop autonomous surveillance and detection technologies.

As Canada’s largest economy, Ontario plays a crucial role in cross-border trade and security. In 2023, Ontario’s two-way trade with the US totaled C$493 billion, supporting millions of jobs.

The province is the top export destination for 17 US states and ranks second for 11 others.

Ontario’s leadership in marine transportation also ties into its security goals.

The province has outlined plans to expand its shipbuilding and repair workforce as part of its Great Lakes marine transportation strategy, aiming to enhance capacity for both economic and security purposes.

It also discusses the need for continental collaboration to facilitate the energy transition.

"To help America decouple from China, we recently announced enhancing and building out the integrated Am-Can energy and electricity grid, including nuclear energy, to encourage more exports of Canadian energy and electricity to the US and by establishing a new Am-Can Critical Mineral Security Alliance that invests in and builds out American and Canadian critical mineral supply chains," the Ontario government explains in its statement.

Ford reiterated the urgency of federal support, particularly for defense and cross-border crime prevention.

“Building Fortress Am-Can is our government’s plan for a renewed strategic alliance between America and Canada and demonstrates our responsibility as an essential ally dedicated to protecting our land, air and water,” he added.