The G-7 agricultural ministerial meeting in Italy focused on sustainable food systems in a changing global climate. North Dakota Farmer’s Union President Mark Watne was part of the U.S. ag delegation that met simultaneously. “We were trying to deliver a message about what’s happening in agriculture and what it may take to meet the standards that are expected to feed a growing population amidst a changing climate.” While it is a global economy, Watne said each country has its own needs. “Whether one country is accepting a certain technology, whether another country is being more sensitive to the environment, what is done as far as satisfying the human needs in their country, and what’s acceptable? All those things play roles in shaping a global economy and you’ve got to be willing to adjust slightly to be able to sell to certain countries.” National Farmers Union President Rob Larew and Minnesota Farmers Union President Gary Wertish were also part of the G-7 ag meetings.
