U.S. Constitution Day, observed on September 17, commemorates the formation, signing and adoption of the U.S. Constitution on that day in 1787. This year, nearly 700 guests were invited to the U.S. Embassy in China to celebrate. The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) was well represented at the event.

Guests enjoyed a live band and national anthem singer, sponsored by USSEC. They also had the opportunity to visit USSEC’s tent at the event. Visitors learned about U.S. Soy’s sustainability and interacted with soybean farm and In-pond Raceway System models, said Xiaoping Zhang, USSEC regional director for Greater China.

The demonstration reached many esteemed guests, including lower ranking officials from the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration and from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs and Native Produce Vice President Yu Lu and outgoing U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad. USSEC staff Jim Zhang and David Li interacted with guests.

During the visit, Ambassador Branstad, an Iowa native, recalled his enjoyable experiences working with those involved in the U.S. soy value chain, including USSEC and the Iowa Soybean Association.  Zhang said Ambassador Branstad’s presence was appreciated, along with his great support for U.S. Soy in China.