The Mozambican government is looking to develop business partnerships with the city of Powell and in the Bighorn Basin.

A leader of an engineering and construction management company from the south African county and a representative from the Mozambican Embassy in Washington, D.C. visited Powell last week with the goal of developing Mozambique's oil, gas, and other industries.

The country's government first became aware of Powell through a local oil tool manufacturing and design firm. Christine Bekes, executive director of Powell Economic Partnerships, said both Mozambique and the Bighorn Basin have similar top economic drivers.

"Energy, Agriculture and tourism. So, you know, there's immediately that synergy. And again, they had that good relationship that they trusted and just wanted to know some more about Wyoming," she said.

She said Northwest College has already connected with the country's government about the college's international student program.

"What I hope is an outcome is more just to continue conversations and, at minimum, continue exploring what opportunities that could come along that makes sense for both Mozambique or potentially Wyoming businesses," said Bekes.

Bekes said she is making sure the country is able to make all the connections needed in the area for potential business development.

Have a question about this story? Contact the reporter, Kamila Kudelska, at kkudelsk@uwyo.edu.