Nebraska ag trade mission visits Middle East

Twenty-five delegates from the University of Nebraska, Nebraska commodity groups, state government and private industry involved in agricultural technology visited the United Arab Emirates and Jordan in February as part of an ag trade mission organized by Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen, according to an article written by the Lincoln Journal Star.

Of the Nebraska delegation was Peter McCornick, executive director of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska. Other attendees included those in water utilization, value-added ag products, food preparation, pest control, network security and entrepreneurs in other economic sectors.

The Secretary of State, in coordination with the governor, promotes international commerce and the exchange of education and culture. Nebraska was one of two states the U.S. Embassy in Dubai invited to a special showcase, which included a “Taste of Nebraska” event.

“Our delegation was warmly welcomed in both countries,” says McCornick. “Our hosts shared their strategies and challenges on addressing food security in this especially water scare region, and explored areas for partnerships with Nebraska.”

Members of the UNL delegation also shared their expertise in the areas of water management, precision irrigation, beef production and food processing. The Nebraska group also met with leaders and university representatives from throughout the U.A.E. and Jordan.

“This trip underscores the important role Nebraska plays on the worldwide agricultural stage,” says Mike Boehm, University of Nebraska vice president and Harlan Vick Chancellor for the University of Nebraska’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.