Chinese Public Security Minister Meng Jianzhu on Friday offered hope for the fate of four South Korean activists held in China, a Seoul official said, as speculation mounts over their possible release.
The visiting minister told South Korean Foreign Minister Kim Sung-hwan at a luncheon the fate of the activists was "under serious consideration" in light of the two countries' relations, the foreign ministry official said on condition of anonymity.
Meng's remarks came in response to Kim's request for a swift resolution of the case, the official said, adding he believes it "will be settled soon."
Media speculation has been rife that the four activists, who were arrested in the northeastern Chinese city of Dalian on March 29, will be released after Meng's visit to Seoul.
The minister arrived here Thursday for a three-day visit that includes meetings with the foreign and justice ministers, the chief of the National Intelligence Service, the police chief, the prosecutor general, and a courtesy call on President Lee Myung-bak.
During the meeting with Lee, Meng said China intends to strengthen police and consular cooperation with South Korea so as to further facilitate exchanges between the two countries, the presidential office said.
Lee also expressed his hope for greater cooperation with Beijing in consular affairs and issues related to the safety of overseas citizens, and called for China's continued interest and support for the issue, the office said. (Yonhap)