China and ROK Aim to Enhance Relations During Foreign Minister’s Visit to Beijing
Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in discussions with Cho Tae-yul, the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea (ROK), in Beijing on Monday, with both sides aiming to alleviate bilateral tensions and foster neighborly relations conducive to regional security and stability.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted recent challenges facing China-ROK relations, emphasizing that such difficulties are not in the mutual interests of both nations.
Expressing hope for adherence to the principles of good neighborliness and friendship, Wang urged a commitment to mutually beneficial cooperation, the elimination of disturbances, and joint efforts to promote the sound and steady development of China-ROK relations.
Furthermore, Wang stressed the importance of mutual understanding, respect, strengthened communication, and exchanges to dispel misunderstandings and enhance mutual trust. He called upon the ROK to uphold the one-China principle and prudently handle Taiwan-related issues to consolidate the political foundation of bilateral relations.
With the trade volume between China and South Korea surpassing $310 billion last year, Wang emphasized the opportunities presented by China’s high-quality development and expanding opening up for the ROK. He urged deepened cooperation, joint opposition to trade protectionism, and the safeguarding of the international free trade system.
In response, Cho affirmed the ROK government’s commitment to its relations with China, expressing eagerness to develop a healthier and more mature strategic cooperative partnership based on mutual respect, reciprocity, and common interests.
Cho expressed hope that the discussions would mark a significant step forward in ROK-China relations, emphasizing the shared interests of both countries and peoples, as well as the international community’s expectations for their cooperation in addressing common challenges.
Highlighting the importance of mutual trust, expanded consensus, and enhanced cooperation, Cho underscored the ROK’s willingness to work with China to navigate geopolitical constraints and open up new avenues for bilateral cooperation.
Additionally, the two sides exchanged perspectives on China-Japan-ROK cooperation, the situation on the Korean Peninsula, and other matters of mutual concern, reflecting their commitment to regional stability and prosperity.
