China is willing to work with the Republic of Korea (ROK) to push forward the development of the strategic cooperative partnership between the two nations on a healthy trajectory, said Chinese President Xi Jinping during talks with President of the ROK Lee Jae Myung in Beijing on Monday.
At the invitation of Xi, Lee is paying a state visit to China from Jan 4 to 7.
Xi first extended his welcome to Lee for his visit to China and best wishes for the New Year to Lee and the people of the ROK. "Friends grow closer with more visits, and neighbors become more familiar with more exchanges. As friends and neighbors, China and the ROK should have more visits, exchanges and communication. China is ready to work with the ROK to stay firmly committed to friendly cooperation, uphold the principle of mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and push forward the development of the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership on a healthy trajectory, so as to promote the wellbeing of the two peoples and inject positive energy into regional and even global peace and development," Xi said.
Lee wished the Chinese people happiness and good health in the new year.
"Two months ago, we met in Gyeongju, the ROK, where we had an in-depth exchange on the future of the ROK-China relations. It's only been two months, but I have the feeling that I'm meeting an old friend I haven't seen for a long time. It's quite cordial and heartwarming. For thousands of years, the ROK and China, as friendly neighbors, have forged friendly relations. I am ready to follow the trend of the times and work together with President Xi to usher in a new chapter in the development of ROK-China ties," he said.
This is Lee's first visit to China since he took office in June 2025.
Xi calls for joints efforts to advance development of China-ROK ties on healthy trajectory
