Mere George – Partner, GHA attended the first Agriwomen Leaders Delegation to Columbia in early December 2018. The main purpose of the delegation was to build links with Latin America’s rural and indigenous primary sector entities. The delegation highlighted Colombia’s keen desire to foster inclusive economic development and participation partnerships with indigenous and rural development Agriwomen leaders from NZ. Latin America is a significant emerging market for NZ, particularly with the potential of the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Mexico, Peru and Colombia) trade deal. Mere said there were a number of benefits from the delegation for both countries.
“The opportunity to share insights from our own experiences in Aotearoa and to exchange kōrero about our similar challenges were particular highlights. The go forward initiatives agreed will also build towards the overall goal of enhancing and developing connections between Māori and Latin American indigenous communities.”