Still, access to fresh water looms large as a future human-security flash point. We need to ensure that our cooperation keeps pace with the problems ahead. For that reason, we have asked the Commission to consider the impact on the Great Lakes of water use, consumption and diversion for export purposes. I have discussed these continental issues with my counterparts, Secretary Albright and Mexican Foreign Minister Green. At the global, regional and continental level, Canada and the United States are using our traditionally close relationship and our shared values to promote a world community where the safety of the individual is a central concern and an impetus for action.
True communities are ultimately a collection of people where the welfare of people prevails.
It takes all kinds of people to build communities. In our changed world, governments are not and can not be the only players. Building human security requires the engagement of civil society, non-government organizations, business, academics and, indeed, of students. Information and communications technologies are making it possible for all of us, as individuals and as groups, to make a direct contribution. These partnerships are I believe the way of the future.