Leaders of S. Korea, China vow closer ties

By Lee Tae-hoon

President Lee Myung-bak and Chinese President Hu Jintao pledged Sunday to further bolster bilateral ties between the two countries, which mark the 20th year of forging diplomatic ties in 2012, in their New Year’s letters.

According to Cheong Wa Dae officials, Lee said in his letter to the Chinese leader that relations between the two countries have rapidly expanded in all sectors since the 1992 establishment of diplomatic ties.

“The two countries are closely communicating and cooperating with each other in an effort to achieve the common goal of peace, stability and prosperity in East Asia,” he was quoted as saying.

“I’d like to open up a better future for the two countries with President Hu.”

President Lee noted that he wants to further promote friendship and cooperation between South Koreans and Chinese through a series of events the two countries plan to hold this year to commemorate the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Cheong Wa Dae officials added that Hu said in his letter to Lee that the two countries are close neighbors and their relations have developed rapidly in all areas since Seoul and Beijing set up diplomatic ties.

“Mutual political trust between the two neighbors has continued to strengthen,” he said in the letter.

Hu noted that China hopes to further promote friendship and deepen exchanges and cooperation with the South in all areas while pushing forward the strategic cooperative partnership.