Beijing: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung arrived in Beijing on Saturday for a four day state visit to China, aiming to strengthen ties with Beijing at a time of rising tensions on the Korean peninsula.
Chinese state media said President Lee was welcomed for talks focused on peace, economic cooperation and regional stability. This is his first official visit to China since taking office last year and comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts between South Korea and China.
During the visit, President Lee is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for their second summit in two months. Officials from both sides said discussions would cover trade, supply chains, tourism and cooperation in emerging industries such as digital technology.
The visit comes just hours after North Korea fired ballistic missiles into the sea, a move that drew criticism from Seoul and its allies. Analysts say the timing of the missile launch highlights the fragile security situation in the region and adds urgency to Lee’s talks in Beijing.
South Korean officials said President Lee would urge China to play a constructive role in easing tensions and encouraging dialogue with Pyongyang. He has also stressed that Seoul’s alliance with the United States is not aimed at containing China and that balanced diplomacy is essential for regional peace.
China, South Korea’s largest trading partner, has signaled interest in deepening economic ties as global trade conditions remain uncertain. Both governments are expected to explore ways to stabilize supply chains and expand people to people exchanges.
The outcome of the visit is being closely watched by neighboring countries and the United States, as it may shape the direction of East Asian diplomacy in the months ahead.