Statement by Foreign Affairs Minister on International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

- Hon. Chrystia Freeland, P.C., M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs

August 9, 2017 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Canada is committed to a renewed relationship with Indigenous peoples based on a recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership, and rooted in the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“Today we commit to continue pushing for progress and Indigenous representation in UN and other global processes and forums. The inclusion of Indigenous peoples is essential to advance and resolve local and global issues.

“Indigenous voices on human rights, gender equality, governance, cultural and linguistic diversity, climate change, and international cooperation, among other issues, are vital and must be fully incorporated if we are to move forward on reconciliation.

“No relationship is more important to the Government of Canada than the one we have with Indigenous peoples. As we recognize and pay tribute to the Indigenous influences and history that have shaped Canadian society, we acknowledge the difficult and painful mistakes of the past. In the spirit of reconciliation, we look forward to working further with Indigenous communities to advance their rights at home and abroad.”

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