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Ambassador
Ambassador Event
AMBASSADOR WAYNE VISITS “LA RURAL” FARM SHOW
July 31, 2007
Ambassador Wayne toured July 31 the annual farm show organized by the Argentine Rural Society, accompanied by its president Luciano Miguens. Following the visit, Ambassador Wayne pointed out that while the U.S. and Argentina are agricultural competitors and vie for many of the same international markets, the bilateral agricultural relationship is strong, especially in the areas of biotechnology, food safety, agricultural statistical analysis and scientific research.
In recognition of Argentina´s important role in the international agricultural arena, Ambassador Wayne noted that the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) has not only had an office at the U.S. Embassy for many years but also a biological control research lab for the benefit of both the U.S. and Argentina. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service – USDA´s regulatory agency – partners with Argentine fruit exporters in the operation of pre-clearance programs, which greatly facilitates those shipments to the U.S. The United States also represents one of the major markets for Argentine exports, coming close to a billion dollars per year in agricultural, forestry, food and seafood products. “I am very impressed by the dynamic Argentine agricultural sector, which is very evident in this year´s fair,” remarked the Ambassador, adding “Our two countries share a significant volume of business and active exchanges. While this is no surprise to me given the importance of agriculture in the history and economy of both Argentina and the U.S., it reaffirms my commitment to strengthening these ties.”
The farm show of the Rural Society has historically been a means through which U.S. livestock producers get acquainted with developments in Argentina´s active and world renowned livestock sector. For example, this week a group of leading U.S. ranchers from Texas and Wisconsin are visiting the fair, meeting exhibitors and examining the excellent quality of local livestock, improved with U.S. genetics in many cases. They are also becoming familiar with developments in agricultural equipment. The Ambassador highlighted that U.S. and Argentina´s farmers and ranchers have much in common, especially in relation to production, landscape and life-style. “When U.S. farmers visit Argentina they feel at home and are always impressed by the warm hospitality,” said the Ambassador. The visit of these U.S. farmers to the Farm Show fosters new professional and personal relations for the benefit of U.S.-Argentina bilateral relations as a whole.
Finally, the Ambassador congratulated the organizers for putting on such a great exhibition.