Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for culture and heritage met face to face today during an annual meeting to discuss their priorities, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships.

Following the meeting, which was co-hosted by the Government of British Columbia and the Government of Canada, ministers committed to:

• Continue to make efforts to stimulate the creative economy. Governments, with the support of various partners, will undertake feasibility studies to further expand Canada's Culture Satellite Account. The goal is to provide a broader and richer source of data for key stakeholders, and Canadians in general, about the value and importance of culture in Canada's economy. Ministers also wish to raise more awareness of the importance of viable cultural infrastructure as a way to stimulate our creativity, improve our quality of life and have tangible impacts on our economy.
• Reflect on the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and significant action that could be taken in this regard. All governments shared their plans to explore how culture can help pave the way to reconciliation and strengthen relationships with Indigenous peoples.
• Celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary of Confederation. All governments will continue to work collaboratively on preparing for this important milestone. 2017 will be a year-long pan-Canadian event highlighting our culture and heritage, creating opportunities to come together, and generating economic benefits for our communities.
• Continue to support the conservation and protection of historic places in Canada. Ministers will strengthen their ongoing collaboration to ensure these witnesses of the past remain important aspects for the development of the modern, prosperous and creative Canada of tomorrow.

British Columbia closed the meeting by passing the torch to Quebec, which will host the 2017 ministerial conference.

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