Oregon Public Broadcasting

Governor Ted Kulongoski will miss an upcoming trade mission to Asia because of a hemorrhage in his left eye.

The Democratic governor was set to leave this Saturday on a two-week trip to Japan, China, and South Korea. Kulongoski announced Wednesday that his doctor advised him to avoid traveling so the hemorrhage can be monitored.

Spokeswoman Anna Richter Taylor says the governor has experienced some loss of vision in his left eye. But she says Kulongoski remains on the job and that he's expected to fully recover.

Anna Richter Taylor: "This really is not impacting his capabilities as governor. He can still carry out the function of the office of governor in full. It's just a matter of international travel isn't in his best interests right now."

The trip will proceed without Kulongoski. The trade delegation includes representatives from several Oregon state agencies and the Port of Portland, along with private-sector business leaders.

Richter Taylor says Kulongoski will participate in some meetings by phone or video conference.On the Web:

Information about upcoming trade mission