The diamond giant signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Lutsel K'e Dene First Nation to negotiate an impact benefit agreement.

"We want to support you and help you go on our traditional lands," said Chief Archie Catholique at the ceremony in Lutsel K'e. "But we want De Beers also to help us."

The impact benefit agreement will firm up details about employment, training and other benefits. The band also agreed to give the company a list of people interested in working for De Beers.

De Beers has already signed MOUs with the Tlicho First Nation and North Slave Metis Alliance. The only group left is the Yellowknives Dene First Nation.

Vice-president John McConnel said the company is close to signing an agreement with the Tlicho. Part of the Tlicho and North Slave Metis Alliance negotiations involve equity and interest, he said.

"They would become partners," said McConnel. "It's a small equity, but it's significant from the perspective that it means ownership."

He declined to elaborate. "I can't tell you that. We're negotiating."

De Beers said it hopes to ratify all agreements by next June.