Statement from Governor Gregoire on Tour of Korean Demilitarized Zone

For Immediate Release: October 15, 2006

Gov. Gregoire joined by Washington soldiers from Sequim, North Bend, Orting and Colfax

SEOUL, South Korea � Governor Chris Gregoire today toured the Joint Security Area near Panmunjeom Village in the Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea.

"It was an honor for me to spend the day with our soldiers serving in Korea," said Governor Chris Gregoire. "The situation at the Demilitarized Zone, particularly now, is tenuous and the soldiers who serve there are among the best."

Governor Gregoire and her husband Mike met with Washington soldiers stationed in the Demilitarized Zone. They include: Brian Lippert from Sequim, Brandon Gilmore from North Bend and Brendan Whalen from Orting. Brian Meyers from Colfax also participated in the tour and is serving elsewhere in Korea.

The Demilitarized Zone crosses the 38th parallel. It is 155 miles long and approximately 2.5 miles wide and is considered the most heavily armed border in the world.

Governor Gregoire departed Washington on Friday, October 13, on a seven-day mission to promote Washington products and services in Seoul and Jeonju, South Korea, and Taipei, Taiwan. Governor Gregoire is leading a delegation of Washington business, agriculture and education representatives to these two important markets to strengthen trade relations. The delegation is also working to promote tourism, increase foreign investment and build on educational and cultural relations with South Korea and Taiwan.

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