South Korean President Lee Jae-myung arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a four-day visit, his first to China since taking office in June, as the two countries seek to improve relations amid growing regional tensions.
Lee is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday, marking their second meeting in two months. Talks will focus on security and economic issues, according to South Korean National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac.
While in Beijing, Lee will also meet Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, chair of the National People’s Congress, Wi said.
The visit follows recent tensions between China and Japan, sparked by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s statement in November that Japan’s military could intervene if China acts militarily against Taiwan. China claims Taiwan as its territory; Taiwan governs itself.
Lee emphasized in an interview with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV that South Korea respects the “One-China” policy and seeks a relationship with China based on mutual respect. He described Xi as “a truly reliable neighbor.”
Lee said South Korea’s alliance with the United States does not preclude constructive relations with China and aims to prevent tensions, according to CCTV.
Last week, China conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan, which it said were intended to counter separatist activities and foreign interference. The U.S. decision in December to proceed with major arms sales to Taiwan drew criticism from Beijing, which then sanctioned 20 U.S. defense contractors.
Lee said his visit aims to reduce past misunderstandings and strengthen cooperation with China. South Korean officials said Lee would also call on China to play a constructive role in efforts to restore talks with North Korea, a longtime Chinese partner.
China has faced international scrutiny over its compliance with United Nations sanctions on North Korea and its alleged aid shipments to Pyongyang.
On Sunday, North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea, according to South Korea’s military. The launch occurred ahead of a congress of the North’s ruling party.
South Korea continues to urge China, as North Korea’s primary economic partner, to encourage the North to return to denuclearization talks. Lee raised the issue during his previous meeting with Xi in November.
According to Wi, Lee also seeks outcomes from the visit that will benefit citizens in both countries.
