Chinese President Xi Jinping returned to Beijing on Saturday following his participation in the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting and a state visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK). The trip concluded with a ceremonial farewell at Busan’s airport, where ROK Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and other senior officials bid him farewell.
During Xi’s departure, a vibrant display of cross-cultural goodwill unfolded as representatives from Chinese student associations and businesses lined the streets near the airport. Waving the national flags of both countries, the crowd celebrated the diplomatic achievements of the visit, underscoring strengthened bilateral ties.
The APEC meeting, attended by leaders from 21 member economies, focused on sustainable economic recovery and regional cooperation. Xi’s engagements in the ROK included discussions on trade partnerships and technological collaboration, aligning with broader efforts to stabilize supply chains and foster innovation across Asia.
Analysts highlight the visit’s timing amid shifting global economic dynamics, noting its potential to bolster investor confidence in East Asian markets. The warm reception from both officials and residents reflects growing people-to-people connections, a cornerstone of China-ROK relations.
