US, Canada, Mexico extend border restrictions to July 21

TORONTO (AP) — The United States has agreed with Canada and Mexico to extend their agreement to keep their border closed to non-essential travel to July 21 during the coronavirus pandemic.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Tuesday's agreement extends the closure by another 30 days.

"This is an important decision that will keep people in both of our countries safe,” the prime minister said in his daily press conference.

Americans who are returning to the U.S. and Canadians who are returning to Canada are exempted from the border closure.

Acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf issued a statement Tuesday on why extending non-essential travel restrictions with Canada and Mexico was necessary.

"The Department of Homeland Security will ensure that the measures taken at our borders will protect America from all threats, including threats against the health and safety of our citizens," Wolf said in the statement. "Based on the success of the existing restrictions and the emergence of additional global COVID-19 hotspots, the Department will continue to limit non-essential travel at our land ports of entry with Canada and Mexico. This extension protects Americans while keeping essential trade and travel flowing as we reopen the American economy. The Department of Homeland Security is in close contact with our Canadian and Mexican counterparts regarding this extension, and they agree on the need to extend their non-essential travel restrictions as well. I look forward to continuing to work with our neighbors to maintain essential trade and travel while protecting the health of our respective citizenry."

The Mexican Embassy in the United States said in a series of tweets that the decision came "after reviewing the development of the spread of COVID-19 in both countries."

The restrictions were announced on March 18 and were extended in April and May.