Toronto, Ontario (March 3, 2026) – Ministers responsible for mining in Canada's three territories met on March 1, 2026, at a Pan-Northern Ministers’ Meeting prior to the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada conference to discuss increased investment for infrastructure related to critical minerals in the North.
Chaired by the Yukon’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Ted Laking, the Pan-Northern Ministers’ Meeting focused on discussing joint initiatives to strengthen collaboration with the three territories.
Mining Ministers for the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut were resolute in advocating for the North, emphasizing the strategic importance of the 40 per cent of Canada’s land mass North of 60. Ministers highlighted the North’s central role in Canada’s critical mineral priorities and the urgent need for federal investment to close the infrastructure gap and strengthen conditions for private investment.
Ministers committed to exploring opportunities for knowledge sharing and expertise to strengthen best practices for mine compliance and enforcement. This unified effort will support a more efficient, consistent and productive industry across the North.
Ministers are calling for enhanced federal exploration tax credits for the territories and reaffirmed the continued call for the creation of a dedicated North of 60 Tax Credit.
The three territories agreed to work together to strategically develop critical minerals projects that bring prosperity to the North through job creation and sustainable economic growth.
Ministers committed to supporting the ongoing pan-territorial Invest North of 60 marketing campaign to promote sustainable mining in the North and to supporting First Nations, Inuit and Métis exploration, investment and returns.
The three Ministers agreed to meet on a regular basis to maintain momentum, strengthen collaboration and advance shared opportunities for the North.
Quotes
“The North has the critical minerals our allies need, but development only happens if we get the fundamentals right. This includes reliable winter power, infrastructure, clear consistent regulation, and respect for Indigenous rights. By working together as territories, we can share expertise, strengthen oversight and make the North a more competitive place to invest. If Canada is serious about critical minerals, that commitment must include practical support for northern infrastructure. We’re focused on doing this the right way: responsibly, efficiently and in a way that delivers real and lasting benefits for northern communities.”
Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources Ted Laking, Government of Yukon.
“As the North advances mineral resource projects, we remain focused on turning shared priorities into action. By sharing our knowledge and aligning our work where it matters most, we strengthen our ability to attract investment and progress major infrastructure projects our territory depends on to responsibly unlock the North’s mineral potential in ways that create new opportunities for Northerners.”
Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Caitlin Cleveland, Government of Northwest Territories.
“Co-chairing the national Energy and Mines Ministers’ Conference this year shows the North’s commitment to shaping Canada’s energy and resource future. We are focused on moving important infrastructure projects forward, strengthening supply chains, and building the energy systems needed for long term growth. By working closely with federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous partners, as well as industry, we are planting the seed to enable favourable conditions for responsible development. A more connected and collaborative northern approach helps the Northwest Territories, and Canada, compete globally while bringing lasting benefits to our communities.”
Minister Responsible for Strategic Infrastructure, Energy and Supply Chains Caroline Wawzonek, Government of Northwest Territories.
“The North is committed to working closely with our territorial partners to strengthen responsible mining development. Critical minerals represent an important opportunity for our region, but success depends on strong regulatory systems, coordinated infrastructure investment and meaningful partnership with Indigenous governments and communities. By sharing expertise and aligning our approaches, we can improve oversight, increase investor confidence and ensure that development supports long-term prosperity in the North. Collaboration across the territories strengthens our collective voice and reinforces the North as a stable and responsible place to invest.”
Minister responsible for Mines Craig Simailak, Government of Nunavut.