Many Canadians view a Barack Obama presidency as an opportunity to further renew Canada-U.S. relations. This includes a more North American approach in dealing with challenges that face not only the continent, but the world as well. The Security and Prosperity and Partnership (SPP), a trilateral initiative between Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, has stalled and in some cases, Canada-U.S. bilateralism has also been hampered. Many policy papers and reports are still calling for deeper North American integration.
The policy paper entitled “From Correct to Inspired: A Blueprint for Canada-U.S. Engagement” was released to the public in January of this year. It was prepared by Carleton University’s Centre for Trade Policy and Law and outlines how the Canada-U.S. partnership can be rejuvenated. It details how Canada can help Obama further reshape America’s role in the world.
Stumble It!
http://www.stratfor.com/weekly/mexico_road_failed_state
The average Mexican has always lived "closer to the edge" than have we Canucks, who have managed to put several layers between ourselves and the "brink". Same goes for most Latin and South American citizens, which is why they are not averse to mass demonstrations -- they are not afraid to pusue direct democracy, whereas we are (as yet) the proverbial "paper tigers".
Maybe this "downturn" (a different way to spell depression) might well galvanize us to play a greater role in our own salvation.
In the meantime, the US remains the world's greatest importer and user of drugs, creating a seller's market, especially through the repressive insistence that these drugs in question be kept illegal. People who are "closer to the edge" can only be expected to seize this opportunity (however hazardous) rather than sedately attend their own demise.
We in this country are beginning to witness similar reactions as some small portion of our society finds itself "closer to the edge" (it's all relative), doesn't like it, and is willing to do something about it.
Same goes for such phenomena as the Somali Pirates
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7650415.stm
But I digress somewhat.
The simple fact is that the United States MUST address the drug usage within its own borders. Other wise, NAFTA et al are simply being put together to ensure continued supply of these substances.
http://www.alternet.org/rights/86653/
Misha Glenny, author of McMafia:
"Canada is home, in my estimation, to the largest number of criminal syndicates in the world. According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police there are now 25,000 marijuana-growing operations in the greater Vancouver area alone."
http://www.opednews.com/articles/Deeper ... 9-798.html