Return Visit from the Ivory Coast to Learn From Arkansas Agri Producers

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From left, Travis Florey from Valley View Agri Systems, Deputy Secretary of State Joseph Woods, WTC Arkansas Director Denise Thomas, Delegate General Inza Camara, Director of Communications Mamadue Kone, and Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward

Representatives from the Côte d'Ivoire Africa, Delegate General Inza Camara and Director of Communications Mamadue Kone, have made a return trip to the Arkansas Delta as a result of previous discussions involving partnership and business cooperation during their first trip in 2014. World Trade Center director Denise Thomas was primarily involved in making that first introduction between Côte d'Ivoire and the state 2 years ago. 

Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward and Thomas welcomed the group last week. Secretary Ward  commented "Arkansas has some of the best farmers and ranchers in the world. We appreciate the hard work of the Arkansas World Trade Center in helping our agriculture industry establish mutually beneficial relationships with Cote d'Ivoire and other countries across the globe". 

Deputy Secretary of State Joseph Wood accompanied them as they toured the Jonesboro area, local farms, and rice mills. They also visited Valley View Agri Systems and House Industries. Scheduled meetings included Southern Brown Rice and Poinsett Rice and Grain.

"The opportunities in Côte d'Ivoire are great, the tools they need to succeed all reside in northeast Arkansas and we look forward to assisting them," said Valley View sales manager Travis Florey.

Their main objective while in Arkansas was to learn about improved farming practices, agriculture and aquaculture education, and joint venture opportunities. Delegate General Camara remarked: "This visit is very instructive.  The companies we toured can be instrumental in improving the performance of our farmers. I am very impressed and confident that partnering with them will be beneficial for all of us. Thank you Denise for making these meetings happen".