Locke goes on trade mission to China

SEATAC, Wash. – Gov. Gary Locke left Wednesday on his last trade mission, a trip to China and Vietnam.

Locke, who is not seeking a third term, is leading about three dozen business and government leaders, some of whom will visit Thailand.

Locke will return Sept. 24.

He previously visited China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea and Mexico.

He also has visited Canada and Europe without full trade missions.

With one out of four jobs in the state depending on trade, Locke said his foreign trips are an indispensable part of keeping the economy moving.