Chinese Premier Li Qiang will visit India later this week to attend the Group of 20 summit.
It appears that for the first time President Xi Jinping will not be attending the talks.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters on Monday that Li will be taking part in the G20 summit to be held in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.
She said the G20 partnership should be strengthened to address challenges of the global economy.
She added that China expects the summit to promote prosperity and development.
When asked by reporters whether Xi will be absent from the summit, Mao merely replied that China has always placed high importance on the G20 and has actively participated in relevant events.
She added that Premier Li's presence will strengthen the G20's solidarity and cooperation.