Brussels, 17/08/2005 (Agence Europe) - To mark the International Indigenous Peoples of the World Day on 9 August, the European External Relations Commissioner, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, welcomed the enormous contribution made to humanity by indigenous peoples, renewing the European Commission's commitment to promoting their rights. She regretted that indigenous peoples and minorities still encountered discrimination, but noting that progress had been made with the introduction of legislative changes. She said we must ensure that attitudes change too. Active cooperation with indigenous people is vital to fight poverty, ensure sustainable development and promote human rights and democracy, she said. The European Commission respects indigenous peoples' cultural identity and choices for the social, economic and cultural development of their communities, she added. Mrs Ferrero- Waldner said the European Commission was trying to integrate their concerns in its policies and programmes.