AFN to host economic summit in Calgary in November
From AFN Echo Volume 2 Number 4 (Page 10) ...
The Assembly of First Nations is hosting a First Nation Economic Summit in Calgary from November 7-9, 2005.
The national forum is aimed at First Nation leaders, practitioners, regional organizations, stakeholders, business leaders, federal government, and provincial and territorial representatives who have a direct interest in the development of First Nation economies. It will provide an opportunity for dialogue and policy recommendations on incentives and infrastructure to encourage First Nation economic opportunity and growth.
“Economic development is critical to sustaining the future of our people,” said Judy Whiteduck, Director of the AFN Economic Partnerships Secretariat. “First Nations must be the drivers of their own economies. We need to advance proposals that support economic development because it is key to achieving selfsufficiency and self-determination. This forum will provide an opportunity to further identify what’s needed to create sustainable and successful First Nation economies.”
The Canada-Aboriginal Peoples Roundtable process, specifically the First Nation discussion on Economic Opportunities, has provided a basis to discuss the practical issues related to supporting economic growth in First Nation communities and, ultimately, exploring a new economic development strategy.
It is planned that the Summit will address issues such as the state of First Nation economies and economic infrastructure, regional economies, labour force development and participation, mainstream procurement, federal processes and legislation, energy, trade, resources and revenue sharing, and economic partnerships.
The conference will be held at The Westin Calgary. Details will be posted on the AFN website, www.afn.ca, as they become available. For more information, contact Ryan Corbiere at 1-866-869-6789, ext. 394.