North Korea's No.2 leader, Kim Yong-Nam, is scheduled to arrive in Beijing Monday for a three-day visit.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said last week that the visit by the head of the Presidium of North Korea's parliament is a "goodwill visit" as part of celebrations of the 55th anniversary of Chinese-North Korean diplomatic relations.

During his stay in Beijing, Kim is expected to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao and discuss the six-way nuclear talks as well as economic issues.

Kim's visit is drawing much attention in that the North and Beijing could engage in substantial discussions on pending bilateral issues as it comes six months after North Korean leader Kim Jong-il made a state visit to China.