International Relations
As Washington is one of the most trade driven states in the nation, the Office of Lieutenant Governor Heck works closely with the state’s international community in order to promote trade, goodwill and economic development.
Throughout the year the Lieutenant Governor represents the State of Washington by meeting with visiting foreign officials and various business, educational and cultural delegations. The Lieutenant Governor also attends numerous events throughout the year hosted by organizations that represent the spectrum of diversity that make up Washington’s population. The lieutenant governor has accepted invitations by private trade or business-focused organizations to lead trade, cultural and educational missions overseas. Recent missions have been to Spain, India, Taiwan and China. Outcomes have included signed but informal friendship agreements and the initiation of new opportunities for Washington state businesses.
In addition, the Lieutenant Governor and his staff work closely with members of the Consular Association of Washington, comprised of dignitaries who formally represent 41 foreign nations in the state of Washington.
