Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Republic of Korea (ROK) leader Lee Jae Myung to Beijing this week, marking the first state visit by a ROK president to China in over six years. The four-day diplomatic mission, occurring just two months after President Xi's reciprocal visit to Seoul, signals a full restoration of bilateral relations following recent challenges.
Strategic Realignment
Analysts highlight the unprecedented frequency of high-level exchanges, with this week's meetings focusing on rebuilding mutual trust—a critical foundation for the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership. During pre-visit remarks, Lee emphasized his commitment to 'opening a new phase of development' in cross-border relations.
Key agenda items include reaffirming adherence to the one-China principle and coordinating approaches to maintaining Korean Peninsula stability. ROK National Security Office Director Wi Seong-rak noted both nations share 'common goals in safeguarding peace in Northeast Asia,' suggesting potential alignment on regional security frameworks.
Economic Revival
With bilateral trade reaching $362 billion in 2025, officials are expected to announce new cooperation mechanisms in semiconductor manufacturing and green energy technologies. The discussions come as Chinese mainland businesses seek to strengthen supply chain partnerships with ROK tech giants.
Observers suggest this diplomatic thaw could accelerate progress on the China-Japan-ROK Free Trade Agreement negotiations, currently in their 16th round. Cross-border tourism initiatives and cultural exchange programs are also slated for expansion under the new cooperation framework.
