Leaders from Yukon First Nations, the government of Yukon, and Canadian federal government gathered in Ottawa on Wednesday for the Intergovernmental Forum to "advance shared priorities".
Discussions included collaborative approaches to funding the implementation of First Nations Final and Self-Government Agreements and strengthening intergovernmental relationships.
The Intergovernmental Forum, established in 2002, is a key platform for addressing issues of mutual interest.
Yukon is home to a significant portion of Canada's modern treaties, with 11 of its 14 First Nations having signed Final and Self-Government Agreements. These agreements grant jurisdiction over many areas of local and territorial responsibility, underscoring the importance of ongoing dialogue between First Nations, territorial, and federal leaders.
Grand Chief Peter Johnston of the Council of Yukon First Nations emphasised the value of these discussions.
"Discussions at the Intergovernmental Forum provide a valuable opportunity for Yukon First Nations to collaborate with Canada and the Yukon, ensuring continued progress on mutual priorities and matters of importance to Yukon First Nations," he said.
Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai highlighted the importance of meaningful collaboration in advancing reconciliation.
"True reconciliation must be grounded in meaningful partnership and collaboration, where everyone has a seat at the table and their voice is heard."
"That is why meetings like these are so critical," he said.
Premier Pillai reaffirmed the Yukon government's commitment to advocating for federal funding that addresses the needs of Yukon First Nations and supports the sustainable development of the territory.
Federal leaders also reiterated their support for First Nations and modern treaties.
Canada's Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, described the forum as an important platform to build relationships and address shared priorities for Yukon First Nations.
"The Intergovernmental Forum is a key opportunity for Yukon First Nations Chiefs, the Grand Chief, the Yukon Premier and Ministers, and Federal Ministers to strengthen relationships, work on furthering joint priorities, and enhance opportunities for collaboration on issues that matter most to First Nations."
He added that Canada remains fully committed to implementing the Yukon Modern Treaties and supporting non-Treaty Nations in affirming their self-determination.
The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, stressed the importance of understanding regional priorities.
"I appreciate every opportunity to meet with territorial and First Nations leadership to learn more about what's really important to Yukoners, and how we can continue making progress on these issues," he said.
The Intergovernmental Forum follows a tradition of Yukon First Nations and territorial leaders travelling to Ottawa during Yukon Days to address regional priorities with federal counterparts.
Collaborative initiatives, such as the forum, are central to reconciliation and advancing self-determination for Indigenous communities, ensuring that all voices shape the future of the territory.
