THE PORT OF QUÉBEC AND THE WENDAT NATION STRENGTHEN THEIR COLLABORATION WITH A NEW FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT
Québec City, February 5, 2026 – The Port of Québec and the Wendat Nation today formalized a renewed framework agreement aimed at structuring and deepening a relationship based on trust, respect, and the Wendat Nation’s rights.
Valid for five years, this new agreement replaces the one signed in 2018 and reflects a mutual commitment to collaboration as part of a sustainable vision.
The renegociation of this framework agreement reflects the evolution of our relationship with the Port of Québec. It is an important step towards collaboration that recognizes our rights, history, culture, and ongoing presence on Onyionhwentsïio’ and in the greater Québec City area. Today, we reaffirm our shared commitment to building a relationship based on respect, diplomacy, and shared responsability for the benefit of all and for generations to come.
This agreement strengthens the basis for a partnership that will more effectively incorporate the Nation’s concerns, traditional knowledge, and expertise into the planning and execution of port projects on Onyionhwentsïio’, a customary land of fundamental cultural and historical significance to the Wendat.
The Port of Québec is proud to consolidate its partnership with the Wendat Nation through this foundational framework agreement. It reflects our commitment to sustainable, respectful, and transparent collaboration as well as our willingness to recognize the Nation’s unique role and presence on the land.
A Structured Framework for Sustainable Collaboration
The agreement provides for several mechanisms tu support balanced, ongoing collaboration.
A joint committee will meet several times a year to monitor the agreement, identify partnership opportunities, and coordinate specific projects.
Projects located within the territory managed by the Port of Québec will be assessed within the framework of the Impact Assessment and Mitigation Process (IAMP), which has been adapted to ensure the Nation’s participation is meaningful and proportionate to the issues at stake and the potential impacts. The two parties will also collaborate on continuously improving the IAMP.
Mechanisms will also be put in place to encourage Wendat businesses to participate in procurement processes and the development of economic opportunities, as well as to promote sustainable tourism and carry out projects related to conservation, biodiversity, and environmental research. Wendat expertise and traditional knowledge will be integrated into port projects as workforce development is fostered.
Promoting Wendat Culture, History, and Presence
The agreement also provides for the creation of joint initiatives to raise awareness of Wendat history and culture, particularly through:
- Interpretation trails and panels
- Integration of Wendat place names in certain port areas
- Cultural, educational, and museum collaborations
- Training and educational activities for Port teams and the general public
By working together, we aim to develop projects that combine environmental protection, responsible economic development, and cultural enhancement for the benefit of the Nation and the port community.
A Firm Commitment to Reconciliation and Dialogue
The Port of Québec and the Wendat Nation Council reiterate their commitment to establishing a partnership founded on mutual respect, transparency, and collaboration.
With this agreement, we are affirming that reconciliation requires concrete action, ongoing dialogue, and respectful collaboration.
This agreement will allow the Nation to continue contributing actively to the life, development, and vitality of a land which it has a long-standing presence.
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About the Port of Québec
The Port of Québec is strategically located 1100 km from the Atlantic Ocean, close to the Great Lakes market. It is the last deepwater port in the St. Lawrence corridor, with a depth of 15 metres. This unique position allows Canadian companies to achieve significant economies of scale in both import and export trade.
With links to more than 40 partner countries, the Port of Québec and its employees handle an average of over 26 million tonnes of goods every year, representing a commercial value of over $15 billion.
The Port is also recognized as the leading cruise port on the St. Lawrence; along with all its partners in Québec’s maritime industry, it contributes to $2 billion in economic spin-offs while supporting some 12,000 jobs nationwide.
The Québec Port Authority (QPA) is ranked 4th out of the 17 Canadian port authorities in terms of revenue. While it is economically powerful, it is also known for its contributions to the area’s urban and social fabric thanks to port spaces like the Agora, the Oasis, the Baie de Beauport, La Cale, the Discoglace, and the Village Nordik.
About the Wendat Nation
The Wendat Nation, the only First Nation to live permanently in the greater Québec City region—and this since time immemorial—now has more than 5,200 members, including 1,495 residents in Wendake. A people of diplomacy, trade, and alliances, the Wendat traditionally inhabited a vast territory stretching from the St. Lawrence Valley to the Great Lakes.
The Wendat Nation has always been, and continues to be, recognized for its entrepreneurial spirit and its collective will to showcase its expertise, creativity, and culture across all spheres of activity. Today, the Nation has more than 300 Wendat businesses, including 150 private companies and 167 operated by artisans, artists, and others.
Led since October 2024 by Grand Chief Pierre Picard, along with eight Family Chiefs, the Nation works to protect and enhance the Wendat territory, Wendat Ïonhwentsou’tenh, in a perspective grounded in respect, continuity, and sustainable development.
Sources and information
Frédéric Lagacé, Port of Québec
418 929-5031 | [email protected]
Constance Martel, Wendat Nation
418 928-6552 | [email protected]