Canada and U.S. Forge Ahead with Modernization of Columbia River Treaty

Canada and the United States have reached an agreement-in-principle to modernize the Columbia River Treaty, a pivotal accord that has governed flood-risk management and hydroelectric power generation along the Columbia River in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest for decades. This development marks a significant milestone in the efforts to update the treaty to reflect contemporary needs and priorities, including enhanced flood-risk management and continued cooperation on hydroelectric power. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted the agreement as a step forward in ensuring the treaty's continued benefits for both nations. The modernization efforts aim to address evolving environmental, economic, and technological contexts, ensuring the treaty remains beneficial for future generations.