SEOUL: The Prime Ministers of China and Japan convened in Seoul for a rare summit, marking a crucial step towards fostering regional cooperation and easing tensions in Northeast Asia.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang, on his first visit to South Korea since assuming office in March 2023, held talks with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, focusing on diplomatic dialogue, security cooperation, and trade enhancement.
During their meeting, President Yoon and Premier Li affirmed their commitment to establishing a diplomatic and security dialogue mechanism, aimed at addressing common challenges in international affairs. They also pledged to resume talks on a free trade agreement to strengthen economic ties amidst global uncertainties, including conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
President Yoon emphasized the importance of China-South Korea cooperation in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes. Premier Li expressed Beijing’s desire to cultivate a mutually beneficial relationship characterized by trust and partnership.
The talks also touched upon the issue of North Korea’s provocative behavior and the need for concerted efforts to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. President Yoon urged China to leverage its influence as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to foster peace. Premier Li reiterated China’s commitment to regional stability.
The trilateral meeting scheduled for Monday, involving President Yoon, Premier Li, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, holds particular significance, as it marks the first such encounter since 2019. Despite longstanding tensions between South Korea and Japan, President Yoon expressed optimism about the prospects for deepening ties and overcoming historical grievances.
In his meeting with Prime Minister Kishida, President Yoon highlighted the progress in bilateral relations, including increased tourism and cultural exchanges. Both leaders underscored the importance of trilateral cooperation with the United States in addressing regional security challenges, particularly concerning North Korea’s nuclear ambitions.
