Wellington, 26 August 2022 (TDI): An Indigenous Collaboration Agreement was signed between Canada and New Zealand, on Thursday.
This agreement will enhance the collaboration between the two governments in working for indigenous peoples and strengthening inter-indigenous relations.
A new Indigenous Collaboration Arrangement signed yesterday between Aotearoa New Zealand 🇳🇿 and Canada 🇨🇦 will formalise the two governments working together to improve outcomes for indigenous peoples, and enhance indigenous to indigenous relationships. ⬇️ https://t.co/kG1a81KmFr
— New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (@MFATNZ) August 25, 2022
Agreement for Indigenous Peoples
Canada’s Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, and Minister for Māori Development of New Zealand Willie Jackson signed the agreement for Indigenous Peoples of both states.
The agreement aims to support and encourage the advancement of indigenous peoples on the economic, cultural, social, and environmental fronts. The agreement will develop partnerships, enhance information exchange, and foster deeper collaboration.
Willie Jackson said that “This underpins a shared objective of creating and sustaining better outcomes for Indigenous peoples.”
Willie Jackson said, “We are looking forward to engaging with Minister Hajdu and her delegation on many issues.”
He added, “It’s a chance to share openly the lessons learned and facilitate dialogue on what our governments can do for our indigenous peoples now and in the future.”
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Remarks by Newzealand’s Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister of New Zealand Nanaia Mahuta stated, “Both governments acknowledge the pivotal role indigenous people play in the prosperity and wellbeing of their communities, as well as the contribution they make to the national economy.”
Moreover, Nanaia Mahuta said, “We have much to learn from each other, and we are honored to host a delegation as committed to advancing the wellbeing of their indigenous peoples as we are.”
Canada’s Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, and her group, which includes Gina Wilson, Deputy Minister for Indigenous Services Canada, and leaders from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, are on a visit to New Zealand for a week.
During the visit, the delegation will engage with iwi, Māori groups, and service providers before visiting Waitangi.
Moreover, they will also discuss ongoing initiatives, like Whānau Ora and the Māori Economic Development Advisory Board, to enhance Whānau Ora and Māori economic prosperity.
