Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development and Chinese Delegation Sign Formal Agreement to Expand Opportunities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 23, 2015                  

MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Throne, 517-284-5725 or throneh@michigan.gov

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) hosted a Chinese Delegation from the Jiangsu Province today in Lansing. The goal of the delegation was to learn more about Michigan’s aquaculture industry along with agreeing upon a shared commitment to foster mutual understanding and opportunities between Michigan and the Jiangsu Province.

The delegation’s travel to Michigan is a direct outcome from MDARD Director Clover Adams’ trip to China with Governor Rick Snyder in 2013 where she met with officials from Jiangsu Province. “I am excited about this partnership between Michigan and the Jiangsu Province,” said Director Clover Adams. “By working together, we can build a better understanding of one another’s culture, and learn from each other to grow a more robust food and agriculture partnership.” Director Clover Adams and Deputy Commissioner Xia Qianbao of the Ocean & Fisheries Bureau from the Jiangsu Province signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a long-term partnership to work cooperatively on fisheries and aquaculture advancements. The delegation spent their day with representatives from MDARD, Michigan State University, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, and Michigan Economic Development Corporation learning more about aquaculture production, environmental regulations, and economic development opportunities in Michigan.

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