Portman invited to Switzerland forum

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - U.S. Sen. Rob Portman of Ohio plans to head to Switzerland next week to discuss export and budget matters at an annual global economic summit.

The Columbus Dispatch reports that Portman is scheduled to attend the World Economic Forum and join other members of Congress for a panel discussion called "Will Washington Work?"

It's not Portman's first trip to the summit. A Portman spokesman tells the newspaper he attended the forum as former congressman and U.S. trade representative.

Gov. John Kasich also will make the overseas trip. It's tied to his plan to better align worker-training programs to meet the needs of advanced manufacturers.

The Wednesday through Jan. 27 forum will draw some of the world's richest and most powerful people to discuss an array of economic issues.