"My objective is to see as much as possible of what the real China is today: the political authorities, the economic transformation," he said.

As for his meeting with Chinese leaders, Borrell said he hopes to talk about "the opportunities that arise from a strengthened relationship with the EU."

He said he also wanted to talk about what both sides could do to "help each other face the challenges of the rapid global transformations," such as the impact on migration, environment, social provision, and the role of parliaments in mapping out solutions to these challenges.

On the relations between China and the European Union (EU), Borrell said the China-EU relations have been strengthened and improved for the recent years.

"Contacts at all levels can only help to promote greater understanding, and an atmosphere of trust in which all questions can be raised," he said.

"Last year relations were even more intense, as we commemorated the 30th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic ties," he added.

Borrell also spoke highly of exchanges of visits between the EP and China's National People Congress (NPC), and of those between the EP party groups and the Communist Party of China.

"The parliamentary aspect of this relationship is a key element of this relationship. Parliamentary discussions have a particular value in promoting understanding between peoples as well as governments," he said.

"Recently a delegation of the European Parliament, led by the Chairman of the legal affairs committee, visited China. Some of the political group chairmen also visited China recently. Such contacts are the best way to deepen the relations between the European Parliament and the NPC," he added.