Republican presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney gestures during a campaign stop at Seilkop Industries in Cincinnati, Ohio, Thursday, June 14, 2012. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP) — Mitt Romney auditions on the international stage next week as he travels to England, Israel and Poland looking to establish credibility as a potential commander in chief in his challenge to President Barack Obama.

For Romney, a former Massachusetts governor and businessman with little formal experience overseas, it's a chance to demonstrate competence in settings often occupied by presidents. He'll hold formal meetings with foreign leaders, give public speeches and visit historic sites.

While it's a chance for him to forge links with U.S. allies, there's also risk.

Romney faces higher stakes wading into delicate diplomatic disputes than he does on the more familiar campaign trail at home.
Associated Press
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