Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for a robust and steady development of the strategic partnership between China and South Korea during a pivotal meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru.
Reflecting on the evolving international and regional landscapes over the past two years, Xi highlighted that despite numerous changes, the bilateral relationship between China and South Korea has maintained a positive momentum overall.
\"Regardless of how the situation changes, we should stick to the original intention in establishing diplomatic ties, firmly adhere to the direction of good-neighborliness and friendship, and remain committed to the goal of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation,\" Xi stated.
He emphasized the importance of leveraging the geographical proximity, cultural affinity, and economic integration between the two nations to enhance exchanges and deepen cooperation. This, he believes, will not only benefit the people of both countries but also contribute significantly to regional peace, stability, development, and prosperity.
Xi urged both nations to increase high-level contacts, enhance understanding and trust, and commit to mutual success and common development. Highlighting China's commitment to openness, he welcomed more South Korean enterprises to invest and do business in China.
Furthermore, Xi stressed the need to safeguard the international free trade system, ensure the stability of global and regional supply chains, and promote activities that enhance friendship. He also encouraged increased exchanges among young people from both countries, fostering stronger ties between future generations.
In response, President Yoon Suk-yeol reaffirmed South Korea's view of China as a crucial cooperation partner and expressed a desire to further develop the strategic partnership based on mutual respect and the original diplomatic intentions. Yoon also acknowledged South Korea's commitment to the one China policy and its eagerness to participate in China's modernization efforts while strengthening economic and trade cooperation.
Additionally, South Korea expressed support for China's visa-free policy for its citizens and a willingness to enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Yoon also highlighted South Korea's readiness to collaborate with China within multilateral frameworks like APEC to uphold multilateralism and free trade.
The meeting underscored the shared vision of both nations to foster a stable and prosperous regional environment through enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding.
Reference(s):
Xi calls on China, S. Korea to promote sound development of ties
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