SEOUL: South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister, Kim Hong-kyun, has called on China's newly appointed Ambassador to South Korea, Dai Bing, to foster improved bilateral relations. During their initial meeting, Kim emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation between the two nations, particularly in light of upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summits hosted by the neighboring countries.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting with Dai Bing occurred shortly after his arrival in Seoul to fill a position that had been vacant since July. Kim expressed optimism about ongoing exchanges and collaboration, highlighting the APEC summits that South Korea and China will host in consecutive years. Additionally, Kim conveyed gratitude for the condolence message from Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding a tragic plane crash in Muan that resulted in 179 fatalities.
Dai Bing, who previously served as the deputy Chinese ambassador to the United Nations, expressed thanks for the warm welcome from the Seoul government and committed to working closely with South Korean officials to enhance the bilateral relationship. Prior to the meeting, Dai underscored the need for continued progress in relations, despite challenging circumstances in Korea. He assured reporters that China would adhere to a non-interference policy in Korea's internal affairs.
On the same day, Dai presented his diplomatic credentials to a senior official in Seoul, a formal step required before officially assuming his ambassadorial role. The credentials were addressed to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who is currently suspended following impeachment, with Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok serving as acting president.
China's foreign ministry reiterated its commitment to deepening friendly cooperation with South Korea, emphasizing the principle of non-interference and expressing confidence in Korea's ability to resolve its domestic issues. Simultaneously, working-level discussions occurred between Kang Young-shin from South Korea's foreign ministry and Liu Jinsong from China's foreign ministry. These talks focused on bilateral relations, Korean Peninsula issues, and furthering cooperation, particularly concerning the upcoming APEC events.