Israel's defense minister is headed to China for talks with senior Chinese officials.

A statement from Ehud Barak's office said the minister would leave for China late Saturday. It said Mr. Barak would meet with his Chinese counterpart, Liang Guanglie, as well as with other top officials.

Mr. Barak's office says the trip is the first by an Israeli defense minister to China in a decade,.

Israeli officials say he will discuss regional issues, Iran, the peace process and terrorism.

Back in 2000, Israel tried to sell China advanced “Phalcon” spy planes, but the deal was scrapped when the United States complained to Israeli leaders about the sale of sensitive technology.