OTTAWA - Prime Minister Stephen Harper phoned U.S. President George W. Bush early today as the two leaders prepare for the North American leaders' summit.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Office says the pair discussed a range of bilateral, regional and international issues.

The 15-20 minute talk included the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, which will soon require Canadians to carry passports to cross the border.

The two leaders also discussed Middle East peace and Harper's recent trip to Latin and South America, where he launched free-trade negotiations.

Harper and Bush meet with Mexican President Felipe Calderon Aug. 20-21 in Montebello, Que.

Harper placed the call about 9:05 a.m. ET.