I think we look at it from a somewhat different perspective. Instead of saying yes or no to the agreement, because I think practically we don't think we're going to really have that much of a meaningful impact on the outcome of that question, there is a third option, which is, what's in it for the indigenous people, and what type of measures will be taken to proactively ensure that indigenous peoples benefit from it?
One of the representatives here mentioned that there's a number of provisions in there that shelter section 35 rights, shelter procurement programs, shelter aboriginal financial institutions as state-owned enterprises so that their investment practices aren't challenged. That's fine, but that's really kind of protecting the status quo. It's just saying that the limited progress that we've made won't be reversed. However, in terms of exploiting the opportunities that come out of the TPP, it would be helpful if the government could indicate what type of measures are going to be taken to encourage joint ventures with foreign investors, things like that. That would really be key.
I know the current government has established nation-to-nation relationships with the three indigenous peoples as a priority, and we're involved in the environment and climate change talks, health accord talks, on that basis, which is very good. The same approach, I think, should be taken to the trade initiative. As I said, and as the AFN has pointed out, the MNC, indigenous peoples were the original free traders.
Some measures have to be taken. Whatever proactive measures could be taken or signalled to enhance the international trade position of indigenous peoples, there would be—