Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN) and Strategic Metals Ltd. announced the signing of an exploration agreement. This landmark agreement provides a framework for consultation pertaining to all exploration activities undertaken by Strategic within the CAFN Traditional Territory, excluding Category A and B Lands as defined in the Umbrella Final Agreement. The agreement is particularly noteworthy because consultation is expected to begin at the earliest stages of exploration and continue throughout the duration of the project. Other key objectives of the Agreement include: establishing mechanisms under which environmental monitoring of exploration activities is carried out; financial benefits of $100,000 paid to CAFN upon signing and an amount equal to 2% of annual exploration expenditures undertaken within CAFN Traditional Territory; establishment of an Advisory Committee in order to provide support for exploration activities and to resolve issues related to implementation of the agreement; and setting a framework for long term consultation and if exploration is successful, the negotiation of a more comprehensive project specific agreement. Strategic currently holds 8 projects within the CAFN Traditional Territories including the Hopper copper/gold porphyry and skarn project, and the Meloy copper/gold/silver porphyry project.