Expect the Canada-U.S. border to close to all non-essential travel in both directions as of Friday night.
Speaking in front of Rideau Cottage in Ottawa on Thursday morning, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says both countries have been in talks in recent days to negotiate a mutual ban on recreational travel without restricting the flow of two-way trade and commerce.
Trudeau announced the expected timing of the closure Thursday morning after leaders of the two countries revealed details of the plan Wednesday.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland says it was vital to the economic health of both countries to avoid restricting the $2.7-billion worth of goods that cross the Canada-U.S. border each day.
She calls the agreement a testament to the strong partnership between the two countries even in the face of an escalating global crisis.
Essential cross-border workers like health-care professionals, aircrews and others are to be permitted to cross.
When it comes to social distancing and the fight against COVID-19, Prime Minister Trudeau says it will take "weeks to months" for social-distancing measures to be lifted.
He says the government is following the advice of health experts and will not lift restrictions on public activities and movements until it is safe to do so.
— With files from The Canadian Press