Oklahoma’s very own Secretary of Agriculture, Blayne Arthur, and Governor Kevin Stitt, along with other cabinet officials traveled nearly 7,000 miles to a trade mission in Azerbaijan.
The Azerbaijani government has interest in diversifying the agriculture industry to include implementing new technology, genetics and technical assistance – all of which can be provided by Oklahoma companies and research institutions. In 2019, Oklahoma hosted an Azerbaijani delegation, including the Minister of Agriculture, Inam Karimov.
Sec. Arthur’s tour has so far included a visit to the Azersun Agropark in Hajigabul, which includes a 3,500 head dairy operation. She toured the facility with Minister Karimov, as well as Azersun Board Member, Savas Ugandan.
This week, Sec. Arthur will present to a group of Women Agribusiness Entrepreneurs and discuss agribusiness opportunities via a round table with the American Chamber of Commerce. Other visits include meetings with Ambassador Litzenberger, the Minister of the Economy, a tour of a “smart village” and an MOU signing at the Azerbaijan State Agricultural University.
The visit highlights the importance of trade relationships to increase agricultural exports for Oklahoma producers. Sec. Arthur looks forward to continued opportunities for agriculture companies and farmers and ranchers to benefit from the global marketplace.