 This week, Governor Walz led a trade mission to Switzerland and Germany. The delegation traveled to major business centers Zürich, Düsseldorf, and Berlin. The mission focused on growing the state’s exports of goods and services, showcasing Minnesota as a top destination for business investment, developing new partnership opportunities, and strengthening existing trade and diplomatic ties.
"Amid global disruptions caused by trade wars, Minnesota is doing all we can to strengthen the trade and investment relationships that create and protect jobs at home," said Governor Walz. "As some of the largest and most innovative economies in the world, Germany and Switzerland both offer excellent opportunities for Minnesota businesses to expand their exports. I look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationships in technology, agriculture, and education."
The delegation was made up of representatives from businesses and organizations within Minnesota’s medical technology, cleantech, food and agriculture, and higher education sectors.
 On Veterans Day, Governor Walz issued an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs (MDVA) to coordinate the development of a statewide Veteran Food Pantry Network to provide food support for veterans, service members, and their families. The Governor also attended the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Day event in Mankato and visited the Minneapolis Veterans Home.
"Our veterans have sacrificed their health, safety, and personal freedoms in service to our country. Yet, here at home, many are left struggling to put food on the table," said Governor Walz. "In Minnesota, we made a bipartisan commitment to provide our veterans with support and care, and we’re ensuring that every veteran and service member has access to affordable, healthy food – regardless of what happens at the federal level."
Last week, Governor Walz visited the team working to implement Paid Family and Medical Leave. In 2023, Governor Walz signed Chapter 59, House File 2 into law creating a state paid family and medical leave program which will provide partial wage replacement for 12-20 weeks of leave in a 52-week period for medical leave, bonding, or caring for a family member starting on January 1, 2026.
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