First Phosphate Corp Signs Collaboration Agreement with Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nations for Quebec Mining Project

First Phosphate Corp has announced the signing of a collaboration agreement with the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nations regarding its proposed phosphate mine and Lithium Iron Phosphate cathode active material plant project in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada. The agreement, signed by First Phosphate CEO John Passalacqua and Vice President of Government Relations Armand Mackenzie, along with representatives from the Pekuakamiulnuatsh Takuhikan, sets out guidelines for various aspects of the project including employment opportunities, business horizons, and environmental protection across the Nitassinan or ancestral lands.

This collaboration represents a significant advancement in responsible resource development by establishing frameworks for harmonization of exploration work with the members of the First Nation who occupy the Nitassinan and the supervision of future work. The agreement demonstrates First Phosphate's commitment to working closely with the local First Nations community, ensuring the project respects the rights and interests of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nations while creating meaningful economic participation opportunities.

Future access to the industrial park at Mashteuiatsh for project development and financial participation in the project by the First Nation are also under consideration as part of the comprehensive agreement. The Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation has committed to collaborating with First Phosphate in establishing rare igneous phosphate as a critical and strategic mineral at the Canadian federal levels of government, potentially opening new pathways for mineral recognition and development policy.

The timing of this agreement coincides with First Phosphate's continued advancement of its plans for the phosphate mine and Lithium Iron Phosphate cathode active material plant. The company's efforts to establish rare igneous phosphate as a critical and strategic mineral at the federal level could have substantial implications for the broader mining industry and Canada's strategic mineral policy framework, positioning Quebec as a potential leader in responsible critical mineral development.

This collaboration agreement serves as a model for how resource development companies can work effectively with Indigenous communities, creating mutual benefits while ensuring environmental protection and respect for ancestral lands. The establishment of clear guidelines for employment, business development, and environmental stewardship provides a foundation for sustainable project development that balances economic objectives with community and environmental considerations.