European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit China on July 24, China’s Foreign Ministry announced Monday.

Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing, a ministry spokesperson confirmed that the visit was arranged through mutual agreement and that Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet with the EU leaders during their stay.

The visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement between China and the European Union amid ongoing tensions related to trade, technology, and sanctions. It also follows the EU’s recent decision to impose sanctions on several Chinese firms over alleged support for Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Talks are expected to cover key areas of economic cooperation, global trade, climate policy, and major geopolitical challenges.