(July 22, 2026 – Mi’kmaq Territory, Charlottetown, PEI) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak met with Canada’s Premiers today at the Council of the Federation meeting in Charlottetown. With the priorities identified by Chiefs at last week’s AFN General Assembly, the National Chief discussed the Canadian economy, the current wildfire crisis and a First Ministers meeting on First Nation issues this fall.
“First Nations understand this is a difficult time in Canada’s history. Prime Minister Carney has articulated this reality very well,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
“First Nations have always stood for Canada in difficult times: The War of 1812, Two World Wars, Korean and Afghanistan wars. We stood together during the pandemic – and again today against Trump’s illegal tariffs.”
National Chief paid tribute to First Nation leaders and first responders fighting the wildfires and protecting evacuees in Northern Ontario and other regions of Canada.
“We expect Canada and the provinces to provide all immediate support and financial resources First Nations are requesting to respond to this wildfire crisis and rebuild,” said National Chief Woodhouse. “Sadly, the need to evacuate thousands of community members due to wildfire, flooding, and the growing First Nations infrastructure gap is becoming a more regular occurrence. This is another reason to maintain strong environmental protections as major projects are developed in this country.”
The National Chief confirmed that major project development is one of the topics Chiefs want on the agenda for Canada’s first meeting of First Ministers dedicated to First Nation issues. The Prime Minister confirmed the meeting will take place in Ottawa on October 26. First Ministers will be invited to attend a special Ceremony to mark the occasion on the day before.
“Chiefs made it clear last week at our national Assembly that the First Ministers Meeting this fall is an appropriate place to discuss fast-tracking legislation, pipeline development, major project approvals, environmental oversight and upholding First Nations’ Free, Prior and Informed Consent,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Many First Nations across this country support economic growth and prosperity for all – but not at the expense of our rights and the government’s legal obligations to our people.”
With increasing uncertainty around Canada/US trade policies, the National Chief described steps the AFN has taken over the past two years to renew its kinship agreements with the National Congress of American Indians. Earlier this year, a new Declaration was signed to support unity and cooperation among First Nations across North America.
“In addition to reflecting our enduring ties that predate the Canada/US border, this renewed Agreement strengthens collaboration on shared priorities that include international advocacy, sovereignty and engagement with future generations of First Nation leaders,” concluded National Chief. “Again, First Nations are leading the way.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
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Cherish Francis
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