China, South Korea to maintain stability of supply chain: Wang

China, South Korea to maintain stability of supply chain: Wang

China and South Korea are working towards stabilizing their supply chain cooperation, according to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This effort comes as the two countries seek to normalize strained relations and boost economic ties.

The meeting between Wang and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's special envoy, former parliament speaker Park Byeong-seug, took place on Sunday [2]. Park delivered a letter from Lee to Chinese President Xi Jinping and extended an invitation for Xi to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in October.

Wang welcomed the visit, emphasizing the importance of developing stronger ties. He stated, "The development of both countries’ relations has shown that good neighbourliness, seeking common ground while reserving differences and expanding cooperation are the right choices" [3]. Both sides agreed to strengthen economic and supply chain cooperation, while reaffirming the importance of their strategic partnership.

The meeting signals Seoul’s intent to repair ties with its largest trading partner while balancing its close alliance with Washington. Relations between Seoul and Beijing have been tense since 2017, following South Korea’s deployment of a US missile defense system, which China strongly opposed. Although ties gradually improved, relations soured again in 2023 after former President Yoon Suk Yeol made critical remarks about Beijing, prompting sharp exchanges between the two governments.

The latest meeting underscores the importance of maintaining stable supply chain operations, particularly in the context of global economic uncertainty. By enhancing cooperation, both countries aim to mitigate risks and ensure the continuity of their trade and economic interactions.

References:
[1] Reuters. (2025, Aug 24). South Korea tells China it wants to normalize ties, upgrade economic relations. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/south-korea-tells-china-it-wants-normalise-ties-upgrade-economic-relations-2025-08-24/
[2] South China Morning Post. (2025, Aug 24). China-South Korea ties at critical juncture, Wang Yi says amid bid to reset. Retrieved from https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3323035/china-south-korea-ties-critical-juncture-wang-yi-says-amid-bid-reset?utm_source=rss_feed
[3] Arise TV. (2025, Aug 24). South Korea seeks to normalize ties with China, boost economic cooperation. Retrieved from https://www.arise.tv/south-korea-seeks-to-normalise-ties-with-china-boost-economic-cooperation/