South Korea, China to Hold Economic Talks Amid Middle East Crisis

South Korea and China are set to convene their Economic Cooperation Committee meeting in Beijing on April 20th, marking a significant step in bilateral relations after a two-year hiatus. This meeting, the 29th of its kind, comes at a crucial time as both nations seek to navigate the complexities of global supply chains, particularly in light of the ongoing Middle East crisis. The discussions are expected to cover a broad spectrum of economic cooperation, including measures to boost trade and investment, ensure the stability of supply chains, and foster deeper regional collaboration.

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The Second Vice Foreign Minister, Kim Jin-ah, is scheduled to hold the 29th ROK-China Economic Joint Committee with China's Vice Minister of Commerce, Yan Dong, in Beijing on April 20.

Our government, represented by the Second Vice Foreign Minister, is keen to engage with China's Vice Minister of Commerce to explore avenues for mutual economic growth. The agenda is designed to address the immediate concerns arising from geopolitical instability, aiming to create a more predictable and stable environment for businesses operating in both countries. This dialogue is vital for maintaining economic resilience in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.

Beyond the immediate economic agenda, there are ongoing diplomatic efforts to arrange higher-level meetings. South Korea is actively working with China to facilitate a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and a subsequent foreign ministers' meeting. While the initial target of a first-quarter meeting has been deferred, the commitment to continued communication underscores the importance both nations place on maintaining robust diplomatic ties.

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Both countries will discuss cooperation in various fields, including trade and investment promotion, stable supply chain management, and deepening regional multilateral cooperation.

From our perspective at Hankyoreh, this engagement is more than just a routine economic discussion. It represents an opportunity to strengthen ties with a major economic partner while also addressing shared concerns about regional stability. The focus on supply chain resilience is particularly pertinent, as disruptions can have far-reaching consequences for our economy. We believe that open dialogue and cooperation are essential for navigating these challenges and ensuring continued prosperity.

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Regarding Vice Minister Wang Yi's visit, we are continuously communicating with the Chinese side.