Beijing:Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has urged China to actively contribute to resolving issues on the Korean Peninsula, particularly by encouraging North Korea to re-engage in dialogue. This appeal was made during discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, as reported by Seoul's foreign ministry.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministerial talks were held in Beijing, where Cho and Wang examined bilateral relations and discussed regional affairs concerning the Korean Peninsula. Cho emphasized the mutual benefits of peace and stability in the region and highlighted South Korea's commitment to denuclearization and maintaining peace.
The discussions marked the first meeting between the two foreign ministers in approximately three months, following Wang's visit to Seoul in August. During the meeting, Wang reiterated China's consistent policy towards the Korean Peninsula and its commitment to fostering peace and stability.
Additionally, the ministers deliberated on the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, scheduled for November 18-19 in Shenzhen, where South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping are anticipated to meet. Cho expressed optimism that this meeting would strengthen the strategic cooperative partnership between South Korea and China.
The two ministers also agreed on enhancing economic cooperation by advancing negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement and promoting cultural exchanges to foster positive relations. Furthermore, Cho addressed South Korea's concerns about Chinese steel structures in the Yellow Sea's Provisional Measures Zone and agreed with Wang to manage these issues carefully to avoid disrupting bilateral ties.