On Monday, the United States and Cuba signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing rice production across the island. The agreement, formalized at the January 28th Cooperative of Credits and Services (CCS) in Boyeros, Havana, outlines a framework for collaboration between Cuba's Institute of Grain Research (IIG) and the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, as reported by the official Cuban outlet, Cubadebate.
The memorandum seeks to optimize rice output in Cuba by leveraging advanced scientific and technological expertise from the U.S. institution. It encompasses technical exchanges between the two institutes, the creation of new seed varieties, and joint research projects.
Representing the United States, the agreement was signed by Mike Strain, Louisiana's Commissioner of Agriculture, and Matt Lee, Dean of the university center. They emphasized their dedication to sharing knowledge and promoting collaborative research. On Cuba's behalf, the signatories were Joel Ribet Molleda, the IIG's General Director, and Yojan García Rodas, Development Director at the Ministry of Agriculture (MINAG), with Deputy Minister Maury Echevarría Bermúdez in attendance.
"This represents another step forward on a journey we hope to continue together," stated Strain. Deputy Minister Echevarría noted that this agreement marks the fourth memorandum between Cuba and the United States in recent years, despite the economic embargo imposed by Washington and the escalating crisis on the island.
Previous agreements have included collaborations in plant and animal health as well as validating U.S. potato seeds suited for Cuban conditions. Following the signing, the delegation engaged with producers at the January 28th CCS, which focuses on various crops and agricultural services in Havana and other provinces. Louisiana is a leading state in rice production within the United States.
Key Insights on Cuba-US Rice Production Agreement
What is the purpose of the memorandum signed between Cuba and the United States?
The memorandum aims to enhance rice production in Cuba by applying advanced scientific and technological knowledge provided by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center.
Who were the key signatories of the agreement from both countries?
On behalf of the United States, Mike Strain and Matt Lee signed the agreement, while Joel Ribet Molleda and Yojan García Rodas signed for Cuba.
What other areas have been covered by previous agreements between Cuba and the United States?
Previous agreements have focused on plant and animal health and the adaptation of U.S. potato seeds for Cuba's conditions.