In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) held their first vice-ministerial level diplomatic and security \"2+2\" talks in Seoul on Tuesday.
The discussions were co-chaired by Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and Deputy Director Zhang Baoqun from China, alongside Vice Minister Kim Hong-kyun and Director Lee Seung-buhm from the ROK. Both delegations exchanged insights on their foreign and security policies, delving into China-ROK relations and addressing international and regional issues of mutual concern.
Emphasizing the importance of fostering good-neighborly friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation, the two sides committed to enhancing dialogue and exchanges across all levels and sectors. This includes strengthening communication through institutional dialogues such as high-level strategic discussions between foreign ministries, ongoing \"2+2\" diplomatic and security talks, and 1.5-track dialogues.
The agreements reached aim to build mutual political trust, promote practical cooperation, and ensure the steady growth of the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership. Additionally, both parties agreed to bolster local and youth exchanges to nurture friendly relations between their peoples.
Addressing core interests, the Chinese delegation reaffirmed its position on the Taiwan question, urging the ROK to handle the matter appropriately. In response, the ROK reiterated its unwavering commitment to the one-China principle.
China also outlined its vision for security, advocating for common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable approaches. The nation called for respecting legitimate security concerns of all countries and promoting global security cooperation through dialogue and consultation.
Highlighting the benefits of economic globalization, China and the ROK agreed to maintain the stability of global production and supply chains. They expressed a joint stance against the politicization of economic issues, trade protectionism, and the construction of barriers that could impede economic collaboration.
On the Korean Peninsula, China emphasized the necessity of maintaining peace and stability, urging efforts to de-escalate tensions and pursue political solutions. The ROK acknowledged the importance of these measures and mentioned ongoing exchanges and cooperation between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Russia.
Concluding the talks, the Chinese side affirmed that the \"2+2\" dialogue is a long-standing arrangement based on the evolving needs of bilateral relations, independent of other international exchanges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
