Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Caitlin Cleveland issued the following statement on the Northwest Territories’ participation at the Resourcing Tomorrow Mining Conference in London, United Kingdom:

"The resource sector in the Northwest Territories is entering a critical transition. Diamond mining remains important, but production is changing, and no single project will define the next chapter. We are preparing for a future supported by multiple new exploration and mining projects, in all corners of the territory, and one of the best ways to advance this work is by telling our story directly to global decision-makers and investors.

"That is why I travelled to London last week to represent the Northwest Territories at Resourcing Tomorrow, Europe’s largest mining conference. The event brings together companies, investors, governments, and industry leaders worldwide – an important opportunity to ensure the Northwest Territories is visible and recognized as a strong jurisdiction for investment.

"Our territory holds significant potential in critical minerals such as zinc, rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and tungsten. These resources are essential for clean technologies, advanced manufacturing, and national security. Attracting this new exploration is essential to building a diversified and resilient resource economy.

"Alongside Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty and Paul Gruner, CEO of the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation, I met with global mining leaders to showcase what makes the Northwest Territories unique: strong partnerships with Indigenous governments, a world-leading co-management system, and a commitment to responsible development. I also emphasized what it means to work and live in the North, raising our profile with European audiences and international media.

"On panel discussions and in bilateral sessions, I reinforced that the Northwest Territories is ready to work with partners to bring new projects to life. While our system is different, it does not need to be difficult. I highlighted upcoming milestones to modernize our mining legislation, reduce friction, and improve regulatory coordination. Above all, I reiterated the Government of the Northwest Territories’ commitment to advance responsible, sustainable development with Indigenous governments.

"Mineral resource development remains a core driver of jobs, business opportunities, and revenue for Northerners. By encouraging investment today, we lay the groundwork for long-term stability and growth. This creates new opportunities for Northerners.

"Canada and the world are engaging with the North in ways we have never seen before. This is not a passing moment. It is a window of opportunity, and we intend to make the most of it.

"Through continued investment in geoscience, critical minerals, and enabling infrastructure, the Government of the Northwest Territories is building the foundation for the next generation of northern resource development.”

The Government of the Northwest Territories attended Resourcing Tomorrow as part of the Invest North of 60 delegation, a pan-territorial partnership promoting mineral investment opportunities in the NWT, Yukon, and Nunavut https://investnorthof60.ca/. 

For media inquiries or to arrange an interview with Minister Cleveland, please contact:
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
PressSecretary@gov.nt.ca