Rob Nicholson says nothing to fear over common defence with U.S.

Canada's defence minister says he doesn't buy the idea that a more integrated common defence strategy with the United States will affect the country's sovereignty.

Rob Nicholson says Canada has willingly entered into several bilateral arrangements, such as NATO, NORAD and free trade.

He says Canadians understand that external and internal security threats make increased co-operation necessary.

Nicholson says the case for co-operation has already been made and the relationship with the U.S. works.

NORAD's commander, U.S. Gen. Charles Jacoby, says both countries have such confidence and trust in each other that he doesn't see co-operation for a common defence of North America as giving up anything.

Both made the comments while part of a panel discussion at the annual Halifax International Security Forum.