Quinn says he’ll visit Asia in September

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Pat Quinn plans a September trade mission to Asia.

Crain’s Chicago Business reports that Quinn on Wednesday confirmed the 12-day trip to China and Japan while at a biotechnology convention in Washington. The governor says he will make stops in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

The trip is to run from Sept. 16-28. Quinn spoke about the trip in reference to efforts he is making to help build Illinois’ biotechnology industry.

Former Chicago Mayor Richard Daley made similar trips to China when he was in office.

Chinese President Hu Jintao visited Chicago for the first time in January. Hu focused on economic ties between China and Chicago.