Canada Background and U.S. Relations

Relations between the U.S. and Canada, though generally close, have undergone changes in tenor over the past three decades. During the 1980s, the two countries generally enjoyed very good relations. The early 1990s brought new governments to Ottawa and Washington, and although Canada's Liberal Party emphasised its determination to act independently of the U.S. when necessary, relations continued to be cordial. In early 2006, a minority Conservative government assumed power in Ottawa. This book provides an overview of Canada's political scene, its economic conditions, and its recent security and foreign policy, focusing particularly on issues that may be relevant to U.S. policymakers. Also discussed are several bilateral issues in the political, international security, trade and environmental areas.