During his visit to China, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang to discuss the situation on the Korean Peninsula and ways to enhance economic cooperation.
On June 23, Kim expressed hope that China would play a positive role in facilitating dialogue between North and South Korea and between North Korea and the United States during the Korea-China summit held in Dalian. He emphasized the need to resume talks with North Korea and requested China's involvement, noting, "Recently, China has maintained good relations with North Korea, especially with President Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang. It would be beneficial for Chinese leadership, including President Xi, to play a role in addressing issues on the Korean Peninsula."
In response, Premier Li reportedly agreed with Kim's call for China's involvement in these matters.
The two leaders also exchanged views on economic cooperation. Kim urged Chinese companies to show interest in the Saemangeum National Industrial Complex, which has recently seen active investment attraction, and suggested a swift visit by an investment delegation to South Korea.
Li emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in high-tech industries, particularly in stabilizing the semiconductor supply chain, and expressed hope for mutually beneficial collaboration. Kim also acknowledged the necessity of strengthening cooperation in advanced technology sectors.
Both sides agreed to use the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Shenzhen, China, in November as an opportunity for high-level exchanges. This has raised interest in the potential for a summit between President Lee Jae-myung and Chinese leadership.
Additionally, Li highlighted the importance of trilateral cooperation among South Korea, China, and Japan, stressing the need to strengthen regional collaboration. Kim acknowledged the historical issues between South Korea and Japan but stated that efforts are being made to develop relations from a future-oriented perspective.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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