Council of Yukon First Nations Jan. 25 said it has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Yukon government that outlines shared priorities and a work plan to improve the territory's mining sector.

"Yukon First Nations recognize that the mining industry is an essential component to Yukon's economy," said Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Peter Johnston.

"This MOU will assist in providing certainty for all parties, so we can build economic prosperity for the territory." Signed at the Mineral Exploration Roundup in Vancouver, British Columbia, the agreement establishes a government-to-government relationship that enables the territorial government and First Nations chiefs to identify issues and work together to achieve concrete improvements to resolve matters related to mineral prospecting, exploration, mine development, production, reclamation, closure and post-closure management in Yukon.

The First Nations and territorial governments said the renewed collaboration will foster their shared goals for environmental protection, and social and economic prosperity in the Yukon.

"The Yukon government is building a relationship with First Nations based on respect and committing to achieve real results, said Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Ranj Pillai.

"This partnership is good for investment and sets Yukon apart from other jurisdictions in Canada."

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