On June 17, 2026, the Center for North American Prosperity and Security, in partnership with the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), convened policymakers, security experts, and law enforcement leaders for an important discussion on the evolving challenges shaping Canada–U.S. defense and security cooperation.
As North America faces mounting pressures—from transnational organized crime and cross-border smuggling to growing geopolitical competition and Arctic security concerns—the conference highlighted the urgent need for stronger bilateral coordination, modernized defense capabilities, and more integrated approaches to border security.
The day began with a keynote conversation featuring the Hon. Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Hon. Gary Anandasangaree, Canada’s Minister of Public Safety. Their discussion underscored the importance of deepening Canada–U.S. cooperation to address shared threats, including illegal firearms trafficking, human smuggling, fentanyl flows, and emergency response coordination. Both emphasized the need for improved intelligence sharing, stronger law enforcement integration, and greater use of advanced technologies to enhance border security operations.
A panel on NORAD modernization and continental defense examined the changing strategic environment and the growing importance of coordinated defense across North America. Moderated by Christopher Hernandez-Roy, the discussion featured Christopher Coates of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, Melissa Dalton, and Tom Karako. 
The conference also featured a discussion on cross-border smuggling and organized crime, moderated by Jamie Tronnes of CNAPS. Panellists included Karen Restoule of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, Roy Boyd, Curtis Zablocki, and Rick Engle. The conversation examined how criminal networks are adapting through new technologies, including drones and remote delivery systems, while exploiting jurisdictional and operational gaps across borders.
The discussions reinforced a clear message: safeguarding North America requires trusted partnerships, integrated strategies, and a willingness to adapt to an increasingly complex security environment.
