President Xi Jinping’s visit to Britain

The president of China, Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan will be making a state visit to Britain this week, between the dates of October 20 to 23. It will be the first visit by a Chinese president in 10 years, with Hu Jintao visiting the UK in 2005.

The Queen’s invitation wa given to China’s leader by the Duke of Cambridge when he was in Beijing back in March to further cement UK/Chinese relations.

The expected itinerary

Tuesday 20 October

Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall will pick up President Xi and his wife from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Knightsbridge, making their way to Buckingham Palace for an official ceremonial welcome via the Mall which has been decked out with flags from both nations.

Xi will then speak at the House of Commons at Westminster.

Wednesday 21 October

Xi will visit Imperial College London with George Osborne and Prince Andrew, followed by an media event at Lancaster House.

Then the Chinese president will link up with Prime Minister David Cameron and for the UK/China business summit at Mansion House.

A visit to Huawei headquarters followed by a banquet at the Guildhall is also planned.

Thursday 22 October

Xi will get farewell ceremony from the Queen.

A trip to the University College London is on the cards, followed by dinner with the Prime Minister at Chequers.

Friday 23 October

The last day of the tour, the Chinese leader will visit Manchester University with Chancellor Osborne.

This will be followed with a visit to Manchester City’s Etihad stadium with the Prime Minister.

After a lunch at Manchester town hall, the First Lady and her husband will fly back to China from Manchester airport.