Canada, Kazakhstan strengthen trade cooperation

The Canadian government announced signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kazakhstan on April 3 that will increase agricultural cooperation between the two countries.

The MOU will increase knowledge sharing and exchange of technologies. It will also increase cooperation in the areas of animal and plant production and development, MeatPoultry.com reports.

"Our government's top priority remains the economy, and by enabling more cooperation with countries such as Kazakhstan, we are helping create more opportunities for our agriculture industry and more prosperity for all Canadians," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Today's agreement demonstrates a strong and growing relationship between Canada and Kazakhstan for the benefit of producers and consumers in both countries."

Canadian agriculture and food exports to Kazakhstan totaled about $14 million in 2011, which included exports of Canadian breeding cattle.