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AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde said Canada is not meeting its obligations to respect the basic human and inherent rights of the indigenous people of Canada.

Bellegarde was reading to a United Nations report issued this week from the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The report articulated serious concerns that Canada is falling short in respecting the fundamental human rights of indigenous people across the country.

Bellegarde acknowledged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has committed to change in the way Canada relates with indigenous peoples, including implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Bellegarde said by working together Canada and First Nations can improve the quality of life for indigenous peoples and Canada’s international reputation.