Republican U.S. Rep. John Kline is leading a bipartisan delegation to India, China and South Korea in his role as chairman of the U.S. House Education and the Workforce Committee.
"The overachieving purpose of the trip is to learn global solutions that could increase America's competitiveness in the classroom and the workplace ...," said committee spokeswoman Alexandra Sollberger. "Members will also see a greater understanding of the region as it relates to trade policy and our broader national security."
Kline also hopes to meet with Asia-based executives from several of Minnesota's largest companies -- 3M, Target, Cargill and General Mills -- during his time there, Sollberger said.
Kline, who represents the state's Second Congressional District, did not attend the state Republican convention in St. Cloud this past weekend; the 10-day trip is probably the reason why. Members of the U.S. House are on recess this week.
It is unknown if other Minnesota lawmakers are accompanying Kline on the 10-day trip. Congress members who join overseas delegations are often not beforehand because of security precautions.
