U.S. Halts Columbia River Treaty Negotiations Amid Trade Tensions

Negotiations to modernize the Columbia River Treaty between Canada and the U.S. have been paused as the Trump administration conducts a review of its international engagement. The two countries had reached an Agreement-In-Principle last summer, outlining priorities such as flood risk management and ecosystem considerations, with significant involvement from Indigenous Nations in the negotiations. The treaty, originally signed in 1964, is crucial for managing water resources and power generation in the region. The pause in talks coincides with ongoing trade tensions, with President Trump reportedly calling the treaty unfair. British Columbia's Energy Minister Adrian Dix announced a virtual info session for March 25 to update the public on the status of the negotiations. The treaty can be unilaterally terminated by either country starting September 2024 with prior notice.