LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is wrapping up a European trade mission that focused on building relationships with companies and promoting Nebraska’s workforce.

Ricketts was scheduled to return to Nebraska on Tuesday after an eight-day trip with stops in Italy, Belgium and Denmark.

The governor says he and a state delegation sought to build long-term relationships with European companies, some of whom are likely to visit Nebraska later this year. Nebraska is hosting its annual “Passport Weekend” for out-of-state businesses in September.

Ricketts says delegation members worked to educate European companies and government officials about Nebraska, while dispelling what they consider misperceptions about American agriculture. Ricketts says the group focused on Nebraska’s workforce, quality of life and the work ethic of its residents.