During the 1980's, the United States and Canada generally enjoyed very close relations. The early 1990's brought new governments to Ottawa and Washington and although Canada's Liberal Party ran-and won-on a platform that emphasised its intentions to act more independently of the Unites Sates, relations between the two countries have continued to be excellent. The two North American countries continue to co-operate extensively in international security and political issues, both bilaterally and through numerous international organisations. Canada's foreign and defence policies are usually in harmony with those of the United States. Areas of contention are relatively few, but sometimes sharp, as have been the case in the policy towards Cuba. Since September 11, the United States and Canada have co-operated extensively on efforts to combat terrorism. This book provides an overview of Canada's political scene, its economic conditions and its recent security and foreign policy.