The Guyanese and US governments are exploring new ways of cooperation in agriculture and support for the development of an agro-energy/bio-fuels sector here.

Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud on Tuesday met with his American counterpart, Secretary of Agriculture Ed Shaffer to discuss the issue at a high level meeting in Washington, DC. According to a press release the officials exchanged views about possible support from the US Department of Agriculture for Guyana’s agriculture drive, especially as it seeks to diversify and expand exports.

“The discussions centred on technological and other support for an agro-energy sector and even the mobilization of private investment in the US for this new sector,” the release said.

Persaud also raised the issue of the restricted list of fresh agriculture produce from Guyana allowed through the Port of Miami, which is the main entry point for New York and other US markets.

Shaffer said he’d address Guyana’s concern as “if left unresolved (it) could affect the export growth of agricultural produce to the US”, the release said. In an invited comment

Persaud said he viewed the meting as “very positive” and that he was optimistic that Shaffer would address his concerns “early.”

The release said Ambassador Bayney Karran accompanied Persaud to the meeting.