Prime Minister Carney, Inuit Leadership Reaffirm Commitment to Shared Priorities at Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee Meeting

Strengthening the Inuit-Crown Partnership

Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed, federal ministers, and Inuit leadership from all four treaty regions for the latest Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee (ICPC) session in Inuvik. The meeting, part of an ongoing commitment established in the 2017 Inuit Nunangat Declaration, focused on advancing shared priorities, economic development, and collaboration on key policy areas affecting Inuit Nunangat.

The ICPC convenes three times a year to guide federal and Inuit cooperation on major infrastructure projects, housing, health and social issues, and regional economic growth while ensuring Inuit treaty rights are upheld.

Key Topics of Discussion

Thursday’s meeting addressed several priority areas, including:

• Implementation of the Building Canada Act – Leaders discussed how major projects will move forward in a way that respects modern treaties and fully includes Inuit perspectives.

• Infrastructure and Housing Needs – The committee reviewed urgent infrastructure gaps, housing shortages, and long-term planning for stronger Inuit communities.

• Arctic Foreign Policy and Sovereignty – Discussions explored how Canada can strengthen Arctic security and protect Inuit Nunangat interests in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.

Appointment of Canada’s Arctic Ambassador

Prime Minister Carney announced Virginia Mearns as Canada’s new Arctic Ambassador, effective September 15, 2025. Mearns is a respected Inuit leader with a strong track record in advancing Inuit self-determination and well-being.

In her new role, Mearns will:

• Represent Canada in Arctic and international forums.

• Bolster Canada’s Arctic sovereignty.

• Support security, economic opportunity, and cooperation with like-minded nations.

Currently serving as Senior Director of Inuit Relations at the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, Mearns has held senior positions with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and the Government of Nunavut. She was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions to Inuit communities.

Reaffirming Collaboration

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both federal and Inuit leadership to work together on shared priorities, focusing on:

• Building major infrastructure projects in partnership with Inuit.

• Respecting treaty rights and environmental assessment processes.

• Creating long-term opportunities for prosperity across Inuit Nunangat.

The ICPC will continue to meet regularly to ensure Inuit voices guide future development and policy decisions affecting their homelands.

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