China's Wang Yi visits Seoul, pledges constructive role for Korean Peninsula

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Seoul for a two-day visit, his first to South Korea in five years, signaling Beijing's intent to play a constructive role in regional stability. During a meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, Wang stated, "China will continue to play a constructive role for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula."

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China will continue to play a constructive role for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. We will do our due diligence.

Wang's visit comes at a critical juncture, with the United States reportedly intensifying efforts to re-engage with North Korea and exploring the possibility of a North Korea-U.S. summit at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in November. China, wielding significant influence over Pyongyang, is seen as a key player in any diplomatic breakthroughs.

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun reportedly urged Wang to cooperate in ensuring that discussions on the Korean Peninsula at the upcoming summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump in the United States are productive. The two ministers also held a dinner meeting following their talks.

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I hope that the achievements in restoring South Korea-China relations can contribute to peace and stability in the region, including the Korean Peninsula.

Wang is also scheduled to meet with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac, engaging in high-level discussions on the pressing situation on the Korean Peninsula. The meetings are expected to review progress on agreements made during previous South Korea-China summits and discuss potential agendas for the next summit at the APEC meeting. With the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties approaching next year, both nations are focused on improving bilateral relations.

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We also hope that both South Korea and North Korea can gradually pursue opportunities for peace and coexistence, and we sincerely wish for the continuous stability and development of the Korean Peninsula.