From the Editors of the Calgary Herald:  The Pentagon announced its intention in March to place 14 new ground-based missile interceptors in Alaska by 2017 , The Canadian Press reports. There’s no doubt the shield is sure to be controversial, but that’s no reason to avoid having a meaningful conversation with the Americans — a point Public Safety Minister Vic Toews agrees with.

“What I can say is co-operation with our allies, especially in relation to a terrorism-related threat, is essential to keeping Canadians safe,” Toews told CTV’s Question Period.

As previous governments have done, the Harper Tories must keep Canada’s interests at the forefront. Experience with successful initiatives such as Norad — which provides seamless aerospace warning and defence — has proved that Canada can preserve its sovereignty while enjoying strategic military partnerships with the United States. It’s evident that while Canadians and Americans share many common values, they share something arguably even more important: their geography.

While a defensive missile shield is no substitute for diplomacy and sanctions, it is essential that the federal government does all it can to ensure the safety of Canadians in an ever-changing world.   (photo: U.S. Army)

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