By State of Nebraska
Secretary of State Bob Evnen recently led a successful trade and investment mission to Egypt focused on building opportunities for collaboration in sectors of beef, water management, grain storage and medical education. Among the delegation were representatives from Nebraska irrigation companies, the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and others.
Nebraska’s world-renowned professor of animal science, Dr. Chris Calkins gave a beef cutting demonstration to showcase the superior quality of Nebraska beef. Innovative livestock nutrition techniques, developed in Nebraska, have allowed ranchers to elevate what traditionally would be sub-prime cuts, destined for the grinder, into prime cuts for use in high-value dining. Dr. Calkins’ presentation drew significant interest from local chefs and business owners and led to an immediate increase in demand for Nebraska beef among local businesses.
“The Secretary of State’s trade mission to Egypt was wildly successful. I was able to speak to customers for beef from Nebraska with tangible results,” said Dr. Calkins. “The potential for collaboration in agricultural research was another high point. Nebraska is fortunate to have an administration that works tirelessly for our citizens.”
Representatives from Nebraska ag companies met with local officials leading the “Future of Egypt” Project for Sustainable Development, a venture spearheaded by the Egyptian government and focused on boosting food security and the economy through the development of arid land for agricultural use. Nebraska’s expertise in the development and application of fine-tuned irrigation technology facilitated the discussion, resulting in the initiation of sales discussions for irrigation equipment and grain storage solutions to advance the project.
“Our Nebraska trade mission participants found tangible opportunities in Egypt,” said Secretary Evnen.
Delegates representing the University of Nebraska met with local Egyptian medical and educational institutions about the possibility of establishing a partnership to enhance educational opportunities for both Nebraska and Egyptian students. Egypt is ideally positioned within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for students who wish to study subjects specialized in or unique to the region. Nebraska’s agricultural and medical research colleges offer programs that could help Egyptian students prepare for careers addressing their country’s most critical challenges.
“This mission has laid a solid foundation for a long-term, strategic, and mutually beneficial relationship across key sectors, including investment opportunities, education, health, and technology with the Ministries of Health and Population, Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Agriculture and Land Reclamation, as well as other governmental and private entities,” said Dr. Wael ElRayes, a University of Nebraska faculty member representing UNMC.