Canada is preparing to lower COVID-19 border barriers.
Ottawa says fully vaccinated American citizens and permanent residents will be allowed into the country as of August 9th.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the move recognizes the unique bond between the US and Canada — especially between border communities.
But not long after Canada’s plan was announced today, White House press secretary Jen Psaki tried to play down any suggestion that the US should feel obliged to follow suit.
Political observers in both countries have pointed to the rise of the Delta variant in the US, as well as stubborn vaccination rates and ongoing challenges at the US-Mexico border as some of the factors at play in America’s reluctance to reopen.
Travellers from the rest of the world who have received a full course of a COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Canada will be allowed in starting September 7th.
