It is time for us to look to that horizon to extend our standpoint and, ultimately, our position. The first and foremost rationale for extending ourselves internationally is the prospect of enhancing our legal position. We create a greater awareness of our history and culture. We enhance our strength and resolve to protect our traditional values and to preserve our environment. We also enhance the opportunities for trade and economic development.
International trade creates new opportunities for employment.
It also strengthens our capacity to provide assistance to those who are in greatest need. Without question, extending beyond our borders also strengthens our political capacity, both within our country and at the world level. At home, we raise our stature as one of the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada and enhance our political strength in dealing with our governments. At the UN and the OAS, we contribute to building a stronger voice for all Indigenous Peoples as we act to collectively protect and promote our rights within those institutions. Until now, only a handful of Metis people has had any experience at the international level and that is unfortunate.