March 06, 2024
Positive start to Indigenous trade dialogue
Federation of Māori Authorities chair Traci Houpapa says a programme to increase Indigenous collaboration between Australia and Aotearoa is off to a good start.
Ms Houpapa attended the first economic dialogue in Townsville last month.
She says the aim is to give life to arrangements underpinned by the 40-year-old Closer Economic Relations agreement between the two counties.
A statement from the hui looks at how that can fit in with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“It talks about tinorangatiratanga and self-determination. it also talks about how we can use the existing trade arrangements that are in place – and really leverage them for the wealth and betterment of First Nations and Indigenous Maori,” Ms Houpapa says..
She says there is potential for partnerships in tourism, renewable energy, and even professional development.