State Sen. Jason Atkinson (R-Central Point) will tour Oregon agricultural industries with Kurdistan’s High Representative on Thursday.

Atkinson and, Qubad Talabani, son of Iraqi president Jalal Talabani, will meet with Oregon business leaders, stop at the Oregon Food Science Center, and take part in the first Oregon to Kurdistan Agricultural Summit.

“Oregon and Kurdistan share several unique bonds,” said Atkinson.  “Both regions have strong agricultural sectors that provide thousands of stable, family-wage jobs, and both regions share a love for freedom.  Together, Oregon and Kurdistan can help one another grow more prosperous and free.”

Atkinson has been integral in establishing Oregon as a sister state with Kurdistan, and has helped to open up business ties between Kurds and Oregonians.

Atkinson is also on a short list of rumored Republican candidates for Governor in 2010.