Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq have a new deal that may help in future talks with government officials.
The agreement between the Mi'kmaq, federal and Nova Scotia governments was announced Tuesday in Truro.
It addresses a 2004 Supreme Court of Canada ruling that governments are obliged to consult with native communities when Crown conduct may negatively affect established or potential treaty rights.
Premier Darrell Dexter called the new agreement a "single-window" approach that includes all First Nations within the province. He said it's the first of its kind in Canada.
Chief Gerard Julian, co-chair of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs, said he welcomed the agreement too.
"With today's signing, Canada and Nova Scotia create a process to carry out their duty to the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia," Julian said in a statement.
Under the terms of reference, negotiations with the Mi'kmaq are not binding but may involve Crown land, water or natural resources.