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Minn. Gov. Dayton Leads Trade Mission To China

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Gov. Mark Dayton departs Friday on a trade mission to China, one of Minnesota's biggest export markets.

The first-term governor is leading a 50-member delegation on a trip that includes stops in Beijing and Shanghai. The itinerary also includes a meeting with a vice premier of the People's Republic of China and a private meeting between Dayton and U.S. Ambassador Gary Locke.

China is the biggest export market for agricultural commodities and food products from Minnesota, and the second-biggest market for manufactured goods from the state.

Dayton is also helping to open a trade office in Shanghai and celebrating the 30-year anniversary of Minnesota's sister state relationship with Shaanxi Province.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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