July 16, 2010

Gov. Bob McDonnell and other Virginia officials will promote the state's products during a weeklong marketing visit to the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Germany.

McDonnell said Thursday that the trip begins Saturday and continues through July 24. It includes meetings with European government leaders and business executives.

In the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, first lady Maureen McDonnell will promote tourism and wine.

Secretary of Commerce Jim Cheng will participate in the entire trip. Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Todd Haymore and Virginia Tourism Corporation president and CEO Alisa Bailey will join the governor during the London visit.

McDonnell says European companies have invested $14 billion in Virginia.