Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre delivered his first in-person address to the Assembly of First Nations on Thursday, pledging to reduce federal intervention and empower Indigenous communities to take control of their economic futures.

"I'm not here to control your lives. I don't want to control anyone's life," Poilievre stated. "I advocate for a small government that allows individuals to make their own choices and lead their own lives."

Acknowledging the expertise of the delegates, Poilievre emphasized that they understand their communities far better than Ottawa or himself, vowing to eliminate the "Ottawa knows best" mindset that he argues has resulted in harmful policies for First Nations.

"For too long, a flawed system has held you back, transferring power from you to politicians and bureaucrats in Ottawa," he said.

In December 2022, Poilievre addressed the assembly with a video message, which received boos from some people in attendance.

The Conservative Party has struggled to make inroads with Indigenous communities. Some delegates to the AFN meeting cited the legacy of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who led the Conservative Party for 11 years.