Li Shangfu, China’s defense minister, will go to Russia and Belarus from August 14 to 19, the ministry announced on Monday.

Li will deliver a speech at an international security conference while in Russia, per the announcement. Additionally, he will meet with senior members of the Russian national defense agency.

During his visit to Belarus, he will meet with the Belarus’ head of state and military. Li will also visit military departments in Belarus.

China and Russia has strengthened military ties, conducting joint patrols and military exercises.

Li had met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow in April, vowing to strengthen military cooperation. In July, Li met with the head of Russia’s navy in Beijing.