Akeeagok wants northern input on Canada-U.S. economic relations
Former Nunavut premier begins work with committee ahead of trade talks
P.J. Akeeagok, seen here while still serving as Nunavut premier last year, says there’s “so much that the Arctic has to offer” as Canada gets ready to negotiate a trade new deal with the U.S. (File photo by Jeff Pelletier)
As P.J. Akeeagok begins work representing Nunavut’s interests on Canada’s trade relations with the United States, he wants the territory’s residents to know he’s open to their suggestions on what to bring to the table.
Akeeagok had his first meeting Monday with the Advisory Committee on Canada-U.S. Economic Relations in Ottawa. In an interview afterward, he said he was “honoured” to get invited and that he will emphasize the importance of the Arctic in Canada’s economic development and relationship with the United States.
“I have reached out to all the Inuit organizations, as well as to the territorial government, just informing them that I am open to sharing and hearing the priorities that they are advancing, that they are pushing as well to ensure that there’s a strong, unified front,” Akeeagok said.
He mentioned that he’s hoping to see major “Inuit-led projects” get built, a goal he shared often during his time as premier. On Monday, he said projects such as the Grays Bay Road and Port and the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link could bring more economic and energy security to Canada.
Akeeagok joins 23 other appointees, who include business executives, academics and ex-politicians. He said he expects them to have “regular” meetings, but is not anticipating U.S. travel at the moment.
They are preparing for the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement review, expected to take place July 1. Dominic LeBlanc, the minister responsible for Canada–U.S. Trade, said in a news release that the group will bring “diverse experience.”
In 2019, during his first term in office, U.S. President Donald Trump helped negotiate CUSMA. Last year, he launched steep tariffs against Canada and Mexico on a range of goods not covered under the deal. The tariffs have strained Canada-U.S. relations.
Akeeagok said he remains “content” with the decision to leave the Nunavut legislature.
“It was an absolute honour to be able to serve Nunavummiut in that capacity,” Akeeagok said.
“To transition into this new role has been very special for me, to continue to advance Nunavut’s interest, to continue to advance the Inuit interests.”
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