Prime Minister Stephen Harper announces a meeting with Assembly of First Nations Coordinated Delegation

AKWESASNE MOHAWK TERRITORY- On January 4, 2013, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne was informed that Prime Minister Stephen Harper has agreed to meet with a delegation of First Nations Leaders coordinated by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) on January 11, 2013.

During the planned meetings, leadership will address areas related to: improving relationships between Canada and First Nations with respect to Aboriginal and Treaty Rights as recognized and affirmed in the Constitution Act, 1982; building effective, appropriate, transparent and fully accountable governance structures; access to education and opportunity for First Nations; strengthening communities with an aim towards self-sufficiency; economic development; and respecting the role of First Nations culture and language, historically as well as going forward.

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Minister Duncan will participate in the meeting as well.

The Release from Prime Minister Harper’s office noted, “This working meeting will focus on two areas flowing from the Gathering: the treaty relationship and aboriginal rights, and economic development.”