Exclusive | China working to add C919 certification to agenda for July EU summit

China will push for civil aviation to be a topic of discussion at a summit with European Union leaders in July, with particular focus on the certification of the domestically produced C919 aircraft, according to a source with knowledge of the matter.

High-level negotiations on the safety evaluation process would be likely to fast-track ratification of the airliner, the source said, and a rumoured order of hundreds of Airbus aircraft from Beijing would only help speed things along.

Next month’s summit presents an “opportunity” for leaders to review progress and “strengthen consensus” at working levels, the person said on condition of anonymity.

“Any direct talk between top leaders would be helpful [for certification]. Consensus can enhance and benefit real work.”

While neither the dates of their visit nor the official agenda have been revealed, a number of issues could be addressed, from the electric vehicle trade to the threat of high tariffs from US President Donald Trump.