I'll answer in a general way. Canada and Mexico are the two most important countries in terms of building the U.S. economy, as a result of our markets, our resources, our oil and our labour. Canada and Mexico are very important to the United States, even though the U.S. does not recognize that fact. I say that because Canada and Mexico can negotiate with Washington with less fear and greater confidence. Now, Washington also acknowledges that its security depends on Canada and Mexico. Two years ago, Mr. Bush signed an agreement, the Merida Plan with Mexico, to provide very significant assistance to Mexican forces to fight the drug cartels. Now Washington recognizes its reliance on its neighbours, and that gives Ottawa and Mexico greater weight in the negotiations.
On March 9th, 2009. See this statement in context.