Oct 26, 2026 5:53 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur with files from The Canadian Press

Prime Minister Mark Carney held a high-level meeting with premiers and First Nations leaders in Ottawa today ahead of the upcoming federal budget, aiming to address obstacles and opposition that could delay major projects.
During the meeting, Carney pledged greater support for Indigenous communities and promised to build stronger partnerships with them. It was the first time in two decades that federal, provincial and First Nations leaders had gathered at the same table for direct discussions on key national issues.
Carney said his government would announce new measures for First Nations in the federal budget, scheduled to be presented on November 5, along with opportunities for investment.
The meeting was particularly significant because many major projects are linked to First Nations territories. Some communities have raised concerns that fast-tracking project approvals could undermine environmental protections and overlook Indigenous rights.


