BEIJING, Mar. 6 -- US President George W. Bush has spoken with Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin over defense issues.

    Bush told Martin over the phone that although Canada will not join the US missile defense plan, Washington still hopes Ottawa can contribute to other defense programs in North America.

    They also exchanged views on beef trade disputes between the two countries and a summit of American, Canadian and Mexican leaders in the US late this month.

    (Source: CRIENGLISH.com)