Shutdown in Washington won't hurt Canadian economy, says economist.

The government shutdown in the United States will not bring harm to Canada's economy. 

Not for the next two weeks, at least.  

In a report by CBC News, economist Avery Shenfield says the shutdown will not affect how both nations can do business. 

He indicates that US departments that take care of visa applications, and business permits would be slightly affected.

Canada's GDP growth would fall slightly too.

But if politicians in Washington can't agree how the government can spend their money next year; trading nations, including Canada, will become skeptical if it can pay its debt.  

The U-S currently owes up to USD $17 Trillion.

Washington has stopped all essential government operations at midnight on Tuesday after Republican lawmakers tried to stop President Barack Obama's reformed healthcare plan. 

The move has left many government employees jobless, and without pay.