South Korean President-elect Lee Myung-bak said Monday that he will make efforts to promote the relations between Seoul and Beijing after taking office in late February.

 

The South Korean-Chinese relations is one of the most significant diplomatic relations for South Korea, Lee said when meeting with Wang Yi, special envoy of the Chinese government, in his office.

 

Lee said his administration will work to deepen cooperation with China in all fields and strengthen mutual trust between the two neighbors to contribute to the regional peace and prosperity.

 

Wang Yi, also Chinese vice foreign minister, conveyed congratulation and regards by President Hu Jintao to Lee for his election.

 

China attaches importance to the Sino-South Korean relations and shares common interests in promoting the bilateral ties with South Korea, Wang said.

 

The Chinese government is willing to strengthen strategic communication with South Korea's incoming administration and to expand mutual-beneficial cooperation with South Korea, he said.

 

China expects common development and prosperity between China and South Korea and is willing to cooperate with South Korea on peace and stability in Northeast Asia and regional integration, Wang added.

 

The two sides also exchanged views on the latest situation on the Korean Peninsula and international issues.

 

Wang also met with South Korean Foreign Minister Song Min-soon and other South Korean officials.

 

During the meetings with Lee and Song, Wang expressed concerns to the explosion in Icheon that killed 12 Chinese citizens and injured another Chinese last Monday. He urged the South Korean side to do its utmost to deal with the problems arising from the accident and take measures to avoid similar tragedies.

 

Wang arrived in Seoul on Sunday and is to return to Beijing on Wednesday.

 

(Xinhua News Agency January 15, 2008)