The Canadian province of Manitoba has reportedly agreed to form a partnership with the state of Indiana to advance the agricultural sector. As per trusted sources, Indiana’s Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch met with Growth Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen, Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler, and Deputy Premier Heather Stefanson in Winnipeg to discuss opportunities to grow the agricultural sector of both the provinces.
The discussion also revolved around the mutual interest of both the provinces in strengthening the Canada-US trade and investment partnership, promotion of stronger business and research connections, and fostering economic growth.
Ralph Eichler was quoted saying that Indiana and Manitoba have mutual priorities and strengths in the agriculture sector which offers excellent opportunities for more information exchange and collaboration.
Reportedly, both the governments signed a memorandum of understanding to promote strong ties between innovative leaders, researchers, businesses, and young farmers while exchanging information about best practices among one another.
Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch was quoted stating that the partnership lays a robust foundation to build a long-term collaborative relationship between Indiana and Manitoba. She further elaborated that the government strongly looks forward to tapping the abundant opportunities opened up due to the new partnership, particularly in the domain of agricultural economic development.
For the record, the trade volume between Manitoba and Indiana in 2017 was valued at $1.1 billion, which indicates a 36% increase since 2013. Nearly 189,800 jobs in Indiana depend on the investment and trade with Canada, cite sources.
Over the next few days, the delegation will participate in business roundtables with Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and the Business Council of Manitoba. The delegation will also engage in focused meetings with leading agricultural facilities such as the Food Development Centre, the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre, the University of Manitoba and the Canadian International Grain Institute, cite sources.