(Iqaluit, Nunavut) Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. interim President, Jose Kusugak applauded the Government of Canada today for formally endorsing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“We have always felt that Canada should assume a leading role in the international community with regard to Indigenous issues.” said Kusugak. “After the government failed to support the declaration in 2007 we, along with other Aboriginal organizations, lobbied for the Government of Canada to take a principled, progressive and creative approach and support the declaration. Today I am pleased to see Canada stepping up to the call and endorsing the declaration.” continued Kusugak.

The declaration contains a number of guiding principles on creating harmonious and cooperative relationships between Indigenous peoples and States including equality, partnership, good faith and mutual respect.

“I see this as a positive step; I see this as a commitment to build a positive working relationship and a commitment to work cooperatively in addressing the issues that have stalled full implementation of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement.” concluded Kusugak.