North Korean Premier Kim Yong-il is visiting China this week in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the formation of bilateral diplomatic ties.

On an invitation from Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, Kim arrived in Beijing on Tuesday with ten ministerial level officials. He will stay until Saturday.

On Wednesday, the North Korean premier will attend a welcoming dinner hosted by Wen and will take part in the opening ceremony of "the Year of Friendship” festivities.

During his five-day visit, Kim is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao and National People's Congress Standing Committee Chairman Wu Bangguo.

Sources said the two sides will discuss Pyongyang’s planned launch of a satellite, the resumption of the six-party nuclear talks and China’s economic aid to the North.

As October sixth this year marks the 60th anniversary of the two countries’ ties, North Korea and China designated this year as “the Year of Friendship.” They are planning to hold some 60 events as part of the celebration. In October, a Chinese delegation will visit North Korea to attend the closing ceremony in Pyongyang.