Arviat, Nunavut (July 7, 2026) – Today, the Governments of Manitoba and Nunavut signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen areas of collaboration, partnership, and future development.
The MOU was signed in Arviat by the Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, and the Honourable John Main, Premier of Nunavut.
As geographic neighbors with common challenges, Manitoba and Nunavut will work together to advance Indigenous-led development, strengthen northern infrastructure and create opportunities for residents in both jurisdictions.
The MOU commits the two governments to ongoing collaboration, information sharing and joint planning across six priority areas, including Arctic security and sovereignty, economic growth, education and health care.
The two governments will explore coordinated investment in trade corridors, transportation and port modernization – including the proposed Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link and Port of Churchill Plus – to improve supply-chain resilience and connectivity between Nunavut, Manitoba and global markets. They will also pursue closer co-operation on health-service delivery, expanded broadband, and training for the mining sector.
Manitoba and Nunavut will share expertise on the safe and sustainable development of natural resources. The two governments will also continue to support Indigenous arts and culture, including through the long-standing partnership with WAG-Qaumajuq in Winnipeg.
“Premier Kinew is the first Premier from another jurisdiction that I have had the pleasure of hosting in Nunavut,” said Premier Main. “To be able to have him visit my home community of Arviat is even more special. Alongside Kivalliq Inuit Association President Kono Tattuinee and President of Nunavut Tunngavik, Gloria Uluqsi, Premier Kinew and I had the opportunity to connect with Arviammiut.
“The signing of the Nunavut-Manitoba MOU today marks the renewal of our existing MOU and strengthens our ties and commitment of working together collaboratively. The MOU will serve as a basis for shared goals, especially around major projects such as the Inuit-led Kivalliq Hydro Fibre Link and ties with the port of Churchill. It’s important to have a solid understanding of how we can advance these projects for the mutual benefit of everyone on either side of our shared border.”
A joint Manitoba-Nunavut Implementation Committee, co-chaired by senior officials, will develop a work plan and report annually on progress.