Trade expected to top Ottawa agenda

President Obama is now meeting with Canadian leaders behind closed doors. The speculation among media types is that trade will top the agenda.

Obama recently said trade between the U.S. and Canada totals some $1.5 trillion (with a “t”) every day.

Accusations of protectionism are flying on both sides of the border. The U.S. federal stimulus bill, signed this week by Obama, contained language directing government agencies to buy American, if possible.

This rankled Canadians, even as “Buy Canadian” messages began circulating over the past few days among unions north of the border.

More on this issue and other aspects of the President’s Canadian visit on All Before Five this afternoon at 4:45.

You can also watch a live video stream of outdoor gatherings and events on Ottawa’s Parliament Hill at cbc.ca.