Statement for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

August 9, 2018 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs; the Honourable Jim Carr, Minister of International Trade Diversification; and the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:

“On this day, we recognize and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples to communities here and across the globe. As we advance reconciliation in Canada, we are committed to working alongside Indigenous peoples, including Indigenous women and girls, to advance their rights and quality of life at home and abroad. Canada is a determined supporter of efforts to ensure that Indigenous communities fully participate in international forums and that their voices and perspectives are heard and taken into account. We also recognize that respect for human rights defenders and their contributions is critical to building inclusive, safe and prosperous societies.

“Canada’s progressive trade agenda seeks to ensure that the benefits and opportunities created by trade and investment are widely shared, including with Indigenous peoples. The Government of Canada supports initiatives that facilitate the full participation of Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses in international trade. We continue to engage with Indigenous partners on trade and investment agreements to take into account our partners’ priorities and interests. Our first-ever Indigenous trade mission to the World Indigenous Business Forum 2018 in New Zealand, in October 2018, will help strengthen global Indigenous-to-Indigenous relationships and enhance international trade and investment.

“Canada is fully committed to implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at home and abroad. We are seizing this opportunity to ensure that no one is left behind, including Indigenous peoples in all their diversity. Through the Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada is committed to supporting the meaningful participation of women and women’s rights organizations, including Indigenous leaders in developing countries who have played an instrumental role in defending and advancing human rights at local, national and international levels.

“Our work is guided by Aboriginal and treaty rights, Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Canada will continue to be a strong advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples at home and abroad. We will continue to build networks, work in collaboration with Indigenous peoples and take steps to advance reconciliation.”