Ministry of Foreign Affairs of People Republ : Foreign Minister Wang Yi Meets with Delegation of National Assembly Members of the Minjoo Party of the ROK

On January 4, 2017, Foreign Minister Wang Yi met in Beijing with the delegation of National Assembly members of the Minjoo Party of the Republic of Korea (ROK) led by Song Young-gil.

Wang Yi said that China and the ROK are close neighbors. Since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations 25 years ago, China-ROK relations have achieved leapfrog and comprehensive development, which brings important interests to the two peoples. Both sides should cherish the outcomes obtained through hard efforts, enhance mutual trust and eliminate interference in a bid to ensure a continuous and stable development of bilateral relations.

On the issue of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system, Wang Yi stressed that China understands the ROK's need to safeguard its national and people's safety. What China opposes is to forcibly advance the deployment of the THAAD missile defense system, which undermines China's strategic security and interests. It is hoped that the two countries could find a proper solution through communication and consultation so as to not affect the implementation of bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields.

Song Young-gil agreed with Wang Yi's comments on bilateral relations, and expressed that the Minjoo Party attaches great importance to China and ROK-China relations, and commits to pushing forward bilateral exchanges and cooperation. This year marks the 25th anniversary of ROK-China diplomatic relations, and bilateral relations are facing challenges due to the issue of the THAAD. As the largest party in the National Assembly, the Minjoo Party is willing to play a positive role in advancing bilateral relations to overcome difficulties at an early date and realize greater development.

On the same day, Assistant Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou also met with Song Young-gil and his delegation.