Gov. Phil Murphy is going on his first overseas trip as governor of the Garden State.

The governor and first lady Tammy Murphy left Monday for a nine-day "economic mission" in Germany and Israel.

Murphy says the goal of the trip is to grow investment opportunities in New Jersey. 

In Germany, he says he plans to meet with chambers of commerce and offshore wind energy associations.

In Israel, he will make cultural visits and hold corporate meetings with the Israel-America Chamber of Commerce and the Jewish Federations of New Jersey.

“We have a very packed schedule in both countries that we think will bear meaningful fruit for our economy,” Murphy said. 

Murphy served as U.S. ambassador to Germany under former President Barack Obama before being elected governor in November.

An economic development organization funded by private industry called Choose NJ is financing the trip.

The governor returns to New Jersey on Oct. 24. Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver will serve as acting governor.