HUNTSVILLE, ONT. — Canada's premiers pledged economic reconciliation with Indigenous people through major infrastructure and resource projects as they kicked off three days of meetings on Monday, but several First Nation leaders say they were disappointed with the discussion.
The premiers have gathered at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ont., to talk trade and tariffs, particularly when they meet Tuesday with Prime Minister Mark Carney.
But first they held a meeting with leaders from First Nation leaders that included the Assembly of First Nations, Anishinabek Nation and the Native Women's Association of Canada, among other Indigenous groups.
That meeting came as Indigenous communities have expressed concerns with federal and provincial laws meant to fast-track major infrastructure projects as a way to stimulate the economy amid U.S. tariffs.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford says they cannot move ahead with major projects if a particular First Nation does not agree to them, adding that he'll wait for others to take some time to decide on so-called "nation-building projects."
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak says the meeting was productive while Anishinabek First Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige says the meeting was disappointing, with little accomplished.
The premiers have agreed to meet together with Indigenous leadership and the prime minister to further discuss their concerns.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 21, 2025.
Liam Casey and Allison Jones, The Canadian Press
