Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy, who recently returned from a six-day visit to Sri Lanka and India, said the DCA was NZ’s commitment to the development of Sri Lanka’s dairy industry.
“NZ has one of the world’s most efficient dairy industries, and a lot of valuable expertise to share with Sri Lankan dairy producers.
“There are only 280,000 cows in Sri Lanka compared with 5 million in NZ and they are keen to improve their productivity. Genetics, animal husbandry, feeding techniques and technology can all play a part in this,” he said.
A range of initiatives are being delivered under the DCA, including a five-year, $2.2 million, NZ Aid programme focused on veterinary education. Other activities focus on improving animal nutrition, extension services, and fostering veterinary exchanges.
While in Sri Lanka, Guy laid a foundation stone at the new Fonterra milk chilling station in Gampaha. The station will increase the quality of raw milk collected in the area.
Along with promoting trade, the visit served to highlight NZ’s co-hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2015.
Guy said the visit underlined the rich history of cricket rivalry between both countries.
“Having NZ cricket icon Stephen Fleming as part of the delegation has proven invaluable in promoting NZ co-hosting of the Cricket World Cup, and initiating conversations between NZ and Sri Lankan businesses,” he said.
