The Western Cape provincial government has approved the drafting of a memorandum of understanding on agriculture between the provincial legislature and the state of California in the USA.
Dr Ivan Meyer, Agriculture MEC, met with Will Stevens, acting US Consul-General, and his team to discuss key projects, provincial priorities and possible opportunities for cooperation.
They also discussed the provincial cabinet’s recent approval of the drafting of a memorandum of understanding submitted by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture to strengthen the province’s relationship with California in sharing knowledge for the sake of optimising the agricultural sector.
Meyer said during discussions the Western Cape and California’s being two regions that enjoy a similar Mediterranean-type climate was emphasised. Therefore they have similar industries, such as producing wine as well as wine tourism.
They are also subject to drought, floods and fires.
“Exciting synergies can be developed to mitigate the effects of climate change,” Meyer pointed out.
He said he is glad relationships with their American counterparts are constantly being strengthened.
Meyer said he looked forward to the relationship going from strength to strength for the mutual benefit of both regions.
