Yekooche, Binche Whut’en and Takla endorse FPX  2025 field-season work while Yekooche and Binche formalize a Nation-to-Nation economic alliance

YEKOOCHE, B.C. (May 20, 2025) – TheNewswire – Three central-interior First Nations have confirmed their collective support for FPX Nickel Corp.’s 2025 Baptiste Project work-plan and, in a parallel milestone, Yekooche First Nation and Binche Whut’en have entered a Nation-to-Nation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Business-to-Business Economic Prosperity and Strategic Collaboration, to pursue major projects together such as FPX Nickle’s Baptist Project.

"By standing shoulder-to-shoulder, our Nations take control of our future," said Chief Mitchell Joseph, Yekooche First Nation. "

"The MOU strengthens our negotiating power and amplifies Indigenous leadership in resource development across our shared territories," added Chief Jarrod Tom, Binche Whut’en. "Together we will secure long-term prosperity for our communities."

Deputy Chief Wilma Abraham, Takla Nation, noted: "Takla is pleased to join Yekooche and Binche in supporting the 2025 FPX program while safeguarding our Aboriginal rights."

"Alhgoh 'uts'ut'en – we all work together. Today’s MOU shows the strength of Binche and Yekooche standing as one, and we welcome Takla’s shared support for the 2025 program," said Dwayne Martin, President of Binche Keyoh Development Corporation. "By uniting our voices, we ensure meaningful opportunities and lasting prosperity for our Nations.".

Adding to the sentiment, Joshua Hallman, President of the Binche Keyoh Bu Society representing Keyoh families, stated, “This partnership demonstrates our unwavering commitment to working respectfully with traditional Keyoh families while driving economic growth for the Binche Whut’enne and the wider region.”

About Yekooche First Nation

Yekooche lies north-west of Prince George, B.C., and is guided by deep ancestral ties to the land. The Nation prioritizes cultural preservation and sustainable, self-determined economic growth. Visit www.yekooche.com.

About Binche Whut’en

Located on Stuart Lake, Binche Whut’en achieved self-governing status in 2019. The community is committed to protecting its territory while creating lasting prosperity for its citizens. Visit www.binche.ca.

About Takla Nation

Takla Nation encompasses more than 27,250 km² of territory rich in natural resources. Takla champions responsible development rooted in Indigenous values. Visit www.taklafn.ca.

About KIU Economic Development Corporation

KIU is the business arm of Yekooche First Nation, advancing partnerships that align economic opportunity with cultural and environmental stewardship. Visit www.kiu-edc.ca.

About Binche Keyoh Development Corporation and Binche Keyoh Bu Society

Binche Keyoh Bu Society —represents the Indigenous Keyoh families—as the true decision-makers for their traditional territories within the Decar Nickel District in central British Columbia

The Binche Keyoh Bu Society has a partnership with FPX Nickel Corp. They signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) in 2022 for the development of the Decar Nickel District in British Columbia. This agreement formalizes protocols for collaboration on exploration and development activities, ensuring that cultural and environmental interests of the Binche Whut’enne community are respected. It also outlines socio-economic benefits for the Binche community including business opportunities, and employment.

The Baptiste Nickel Project is located approximately 90 km northwest of Fort St. James, within FPX Nickel’s Decar Nickel District on the Mount Sidney Williams ultramafic complex in central British Columbia. The proposed open‑pit mine site lies west of Middle River and north of Trembleur Lake, entirely within the traditional territories of Binche, Yekooche, , Takla, and Tl’azt’en Nations.