GATINEAU, QUE.—Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is calling for a renewed relationship with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples in Canada and standing by his election promises that, if implemented, would completely overhaul it.

“History has shown that that taking an adversarial approach is not only ineffective—it can be profoundly damaging. Nowhere is this more obvious than in the government's relationship with First Nations,” Trudeau told the special chiefs assembly of the Assembly of First Nations in Gatineau, Que. Tuesday morning.

“It is time for a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship with First Nations peoples: One that understands that the constitutionally guaranteed rights of First Nations in Canada are not an inconvenience, but rather a sacred obligation; one that is based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership; one that is guided by the spirit and intent of the original treaty relationship; one that respects inherent rights, treaties and jurisdictions; and one that respects the decisions of our courts,” Trudeau said in his speech.

“I know that renewing our relationship is an ambitious goal, but I am equally certain that it is one we can, and will, achieve if we work together. This is a responsibility I take seriously, and I have instructed my government to do the same.”

Trudeau also recommitted to fulfill his election promises to indigenous peoples, including calling a national inquiry into how more than 1,200 indigenous women and girls are murdered or missing in Canada.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett, Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould and Status of Women Minister Patricia Hajdu are scheduled to announce the details of a pre-inquiry consultation process in Ottawa on Tuesday afternoon.

Trudeau promised “significant investments” in First Nations education, promising the reforms to be led by First Nations people, rather than a “top down” approach.

He also promised to lift the 2-per-cent cap on annual funding increases for First Nations programs in the first federal budget, fully implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report and fully review all legislation “unilaterally” imposed on First Nations by the previous Conservative government.

Speaking before Trudeau took the stage, AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde did not hide his enthusiasm for the promises made by the new Liberal government, especially following a difficult relationship with the Conservatives.

“Chiefs, it is indeed a new day on Turtle Island,” Bellegarde said to applause.

Bellegarde stressed how much work remains to be done, but expressed optimism for progress.

“There must be a sense of urgency. The First Peoples of Canada have suffered for too much and too long,” Bellegarde said.

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“I ask that we move quickly. We can resolve issues by working well together . . . You have made a great start in changing the narrative, Mr. Prime Minister,” Bellegarde said.

“We are hopeful. We are optimistic. Let's get to work,” Bellegarde said.

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