China and the Republic of Korea share similar positions and broad common interests on the Korean Peninsula issue and China-ROK relations have always been treated as a priority in China's overall foreign policy, said China's special representative on Korean Peninsula Affairs Liu Xiaoming. 

Liu, who paid a visit to Seoul from Tuesday to Friday, said that China-ROK relations have always been treated as a priority in China's overall foreign policy. 

 "Staying true to the original aspiration of establishing China-ROK diplomatic ties, China will work with the ROK and take the opportunity of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations to enhance mutual understanding and trust and advance the bilateral relations to greater depth," Liu said.

Liu said that China has always supported the ROK and North Korea in improving their relations and pursuing reconciliation and cooperation. Liu also stressed that China will strengthen communication and coordination with the ROK to jointly work for peace and stability on the Peninsula and promote the political settlement process of the Peninsula issue.

Officials of the ROK said that the ROK places high importance on its relations with China and is ready to work with China to achieve new and greater progress in bilateral ties. The ROK recognized the important role of China in addressing the issue and expressed readiness to work with China for lasting peace and security on the Peninsula.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Liu met with ROK Minister of Unification Lee In-young, First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Choi Jong Kun, Vice Minister of Unification Choi Young Joon, and Second Deputy Director of the National Security Office Kim Hyung-jin. He also met the main aides of the President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol on unification, foreign and security affairs.

Global Times