The United States and Canadian governments have announced an agreement to modernize the Columbia River Treaty, reports Europa Press. Originally signed in 1961, the Treaty primarily focused on the development and operation of dams within the Columbia River drainage basin, often neglecting the concerns of indigenous peoples.
"I am pleased to announce that our countries have reached an agreement in principle on the key elements of a modernized Treaty. After 60 years, the Treaty needs to be updated to reflect our changing climate and the needs of the communities that depend on this vital waterway," said U.S. President Joe Biden following a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The leaders emphasized their shared commitment to the long-term management of the Columbia River, highlighting the Treaty’s significance for the next two decades. "By modernizing this treaty, we will give voice to American tribes and Canadian Indian nations. We will rebalance energy coordination between the United States and Canada, allowing the United States to retain more clean hydropower and providing Canada with greater opportunities to import and export energy to the U.S. market, which is essential for both countries to achieve our clean energy goals," Biden added.
President Biden also noted that the United States will benefit from planned water storage at Canadian dams included in the Treaty. This arrangement will enhance flood control measures and protect vulnerable communities.
"The Columbia River and its tributaries are of immense importance to tribal and indigenous peoples, who have relied on this ecosystem and its abundant resources for generations. These waterways are also crucial to our nation's economy, generating 40 percent of America's hydroelectric power, irrigating $8 billion in agricultural products, and moving 42 million tons of commercial cargo annually," Biden stated.
