Press Releases

Grand Chief Kyra Wilson Advances Nation-to-Nation Economic Partnerships in Mexico as Part of Team Canada Trade Mission

Mexico City, Mexico (February 18, 2026)- Grand Chief Kyra Wilson is representing Manitoba’s 63 First Nations this week as part of Team Canada’s official trade mission to Mexico, advancing direct nation-to-nation economic partnerships and positioning First Nations governments as full participants in the global economy.

At a moment when global trade alliances are shifting and political dynamics are realigning, First Nations governments are asserting their rightful place in international economic discussions, not as stakeholders, but as governments.

“Our goal is to expand our ability to help First Nations fully participate in trade and investment opportunities,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “We are working to build direct relationships that strengthen our economic capacity, open new markets, and create long-term opportunities for our communities.”

While in Mexico City, Grand Chief Wilson met with Indigenous leaders from both Canada and Mexico, along with representatives at the Canadian Embassy, to advance a shared path forward grounded in mutual respect, economic collaboration, and Indigenous self-determination. Discussions focused on strengthening cross-border relationships and identifying practical opportunities for cooperation in trade, clean energy, infrastructure, responsible resource development, and cultural industries.

Mission engagements more broadly are centered on investment partnerships, trade corridors, and long-term economic diversification, sectors where Manitoba First Nations are building capacity and advancing strategic growth.

Grand Chief Wilson underscored that participation must translate into measurable outcomes for communities.

“This is about more than being invited into the room,” she said. “It’s about taking our rightful place at the table,  shaping the agenda, building partnerships, and ensuring our 63 First Nations are positioned for the future.”

As economic and geopolitical landscapes continue to evolve, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is advancing diversification, global engagement, and economic sovereignty as core pillars of long-term prosperity. 

“In a changing world, we must open new doors,” Wilson added. “We are here to build trusted partnerships, attract investment aligned with our values, and create sustainable economies that strengthen our Nations for generations to come.”

For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com
 
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of all 63 First Nations in Manitoba, with a total of more than 151,000 First Nations citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 per cent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe (Ojibwe), Nehetho / Ininew (Cree), Anishininew (Ojibwe-Cree), Denesuline (Dene) and Dakota Oyate (Dakota) people.