South DakotaS chief executive, Gov. Larry Rhoden, has embarked on a trade mission to Israel, according to an announcement made Monday. The governor aims to bolster economic ties between the state and the Middle Eastern nation.

According to a statement from the governor’s office, the delegation is scheduled to host a seminar with the goal of “focused on recruiting foreign direct investment into the state.” The group includes representatives from South Dakota’s defense and agriculture sectors, who are “seeking sales in the Israeli market.”

“By working together with countries across the globe, we will keep South Dakota Open for Prospect for generations to come,” said Rhoden in the released statement.

The governor is accompanied by South Dakota Trade, a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating international commerce for the state.

Jesse Fonkert, president & CEO of South Dakota Trade, noted the success of previous efforts: “We had a triumphant mission in November of last year and are back because our businesses are generating real opportunities that have already produced millions in sales and a robust pipeline for even more expansion.”

Meetings and Engagements

The governor’s itinerary includes meetings with key Israeli leaders, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. The governor also participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the World Holocaust Remembrance Centre. Additionally, he visited a hospital to engage with soldiers recovering from injuries sustained in the Gaza conflict. U.S. Ambassador to israel Mike Huckabee is slated to host a reception in Rhoden’s honor.

“By working together with countries across the globe, we will keep South dakota Open for Opportunity for generations to come,”

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