Wang Yi reaffirms China's strong ties with South Korea

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed China's policy towards South Korea on Friday, stating that no matter how the domestic situation in the Republic of Korea (ROK) changes, China will always adhere to the principles of good-neighborliness and friendship between the two countries.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with Cho Tae-yul, minister of foreign affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK), in Tokyo ahead of the 11th China-Japan-ROK Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Meeting, which is scheduled for Saturday.

Wang emphasized that China and the ROK are inseparable neighbors and partners. He expressed hope that the ROK would uphold the original intention of establishing diplomatic ties, pursue a positive and friendly policy toward China, and collaborate with China to guide the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership in the right direction, contributing to regional and global peace and prosperity.

Wang also introduced the economic and social development goals set at China's Two Sessions this year, highlighting that China's economy continues to experience strong growth and resilience, which will offer new opportunities for countries, including the ROK, through high-quality development.

Noting that both the ROK and China will host the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in the coming years, Wang said both sides should implement the consensus reached by their leaders and support each other in hosting the events.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-ROK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Wang stated, adding that the two countries should expedite negotiations on the second phase of the FTA and work towards reaching an agreement as soon as possible.

Both China and the ROK are strong advocates for free trade, Wang remarked, emphasizing that in the face of unilateralism and coercive actions, the two countries must jointly oppose "decoupling" and work to maintain the stability and smooth operation of the global supply chain and industrial chain.

For his part, Cho congratulated China on the successful completion of the annual sessions of its top legislature and political advisory body, wishing China continued success in its modernization efforts.

Cho emphasized that the ROK places great importance on bilateral cooperation and values the current momentum of improvement and development in China-ROK relations. He noted that the ROK is eager to use the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and other opportunities to strengthen high-level exchanges and cooperation, expand exchanges in areas such as local governments, parliaments, youth and culture, and enhance friendly relations between the two peoples.

In light of the turbulent and unstable international situation, Cho added that the ROK is committed to strengthening communication and coordination with China to jointly safeguard regional peace and stability.

The two sides also exchanged views on China-Japan-ROK cooperation, the situation on the Korean Peninsula and other issues of mutual concern.

(With input from Xinhua)