Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Lee Jae-myung on Wednesday following his election as president of the Republic of Korea (ROK), reaffirming Beijing's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The message underscores China's focus on regional diplomacy amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in Asia.
In his statement, Xi emphasized the historical and cultural connections between the two nations, noting their shared interest in promoting peace and prosperity. 'China stands ready to work with the ROK to deepen practical cooperation in trade, technology, and green energy,' the Chinese leader said, highlighting areas like semiconductor supply chains and carbon neutrality initiatives.
The ROK is China's third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $360 billion in 2023. Analysts suggest Lee's pragmatic approach to economic policy could align with China's push for stable cross-border supply chains and digital economy collaboration.
This diplomatic gesture comes as both nations navigate complex regional challenges, including the DPRK's recent missile tests and evolving U.S.-Asia security partnerships. Observers will watch for early signals on whether Lee's administration will maintain Seoul's balancing act between major powers.
