Prince William likely to visit China next year, says Buckingham Palace
But pregnant Catherine will probably miss trip, which is intended to cement diplomatic relations
The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, plans to visit China next year - but it's unlikely his pregnant wife Catherine will be with him.
The official trip - only the second major visit by a British royal to the mainland - is likely to cement Britain's diplomatic ties with China, which have gained traction after Premier Li Keqiang visited the UK in June.
A royal official told the South China Morning Post: "There has been an invitation [from China], and it's being considered.
"I think there's a good chance the Duke of Cambridge will travel out to China in the first quarter of next year."
A formal announcement is expected to be made this week.
The official did not mention the Duchess of Cambridge, who is due to give birth to the couple's second child around the time of the planned trip in April. It is unlikely that she will be able to fly due to health considerations.