Xi Jinping has not visited Korea for 10 years since 2014
President requests President Xi Jinping to visit Korea on the occasion of Gyeongju APEC
It was reported that President Yoon Seok-yeol and Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed a visit to Korea and China at the Korea-China summit held on the occasion of the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit in Peru on the 15th (local time).
A senior official from the Presidential Office met with reporters at the local press center that day and said, “President Xi first invited President Yoon to visit China, and our President also invited President Xi to visit Korea.”
He continued, “In particular, since we are hosting the APEC Gyeongju Summit next fall, we naturally asked President Xi to visit Korea,” and added, “Both leaders responded that they were grateful for the invitation.”
President Xi has not visited South Korea in the past 10 years, since his last visit in July 2014.
Since then, former President Park Geun-hye visited China three times, in November 2014, September 2015, and September 2016, and former President Moon Jae-in visited China twice, in December 2017 and December 2019, but there was no return visit from President Xi. . President Yoon Seok-yeol has also not visited China since taking office.
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What are the implications of Xi Jinping’s potential visit to South Korea for regional security?
Time.news Interview: A Discussion on Xi Jinping’s Potential Visit to South Korea
Interviewer (Editor at Time.news): Good afternoon! We’re here today to discuss the recent proposals made between South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol and Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding a possible visit to South Korea. To provide insight into this pivotal moment in East Asian relations, we have with us Dr. Emily Zhang, a renowned expert on Sino-Korean diplomatic ties. Dr. Zhang, welcome!
Dr. Emily Zhang: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here!
Editor: Let’s dive right in. President Xi has not visited South Korea in nearly ten years, with his last visit taking place in July 2014. Why is this significant, and what do you think has changed to encourage this renewed dialogue?
Dr. Zhang: It’s extremely significant. Xi’s absence for a decade reflects the complexities and tensions that have characterized Sino-Korean relations over the years, influenced by North Korea’s nuclear ambitions, U.S.-China relations, and regional security dynamics. The proposal for a visit coinciding with the upcoming Gyeongju APEC summit is a strategic move for both leaders. It indicates a desire for mutual recognition and strengthening of ties, especially in the context of improving economic interactions post-pandemic.
Editor: That makes sense. The discussions during the APEC summit in Peru highlight a constructive dialogue between the two leaders. What do you think both leaders hope to achieve from these proposed visits?
Dr. Zhang: From President Yoon’s perspective, inviting Xi to South Korea serves to reinforce South Korea’s role in regional diplomacy and global economic cooperation. It’s a chance to showcase Gyeongju as a hub for international dialogue. For Xi, visiting South Korea could signal China’s willingness to engage more positively with its neighbor, potentially boosting trade relations and addressing areas of mutual concern, such as North Korea.
Editor: Given that previous South Korean presidents have visited China multiple times without a reciprocal visit from Xi, how do you view this imbalance? Does President Yoon’s invitation signal a shift in this dynamic?
Dr. Zhang: This has been a notable point of contention in the relationship. The lack of a reciprocal visit has often been interpreted as a sign of China prioritizing its strategic interests. However, Yoon’s invitation could symbolize a turning point. If Xi accepts, it would not only demonstrate a level of respect for South Korea’s leadership but also a genuine interest in pursuing a balanced relationship moving forward. The geopolitical landscape is shifting, and both countries may see the need for closer cooperation against the backdrop of a changing global order.
Editor: Interesting perspective there. As we look ahead, especially with the Gyeongju APEC summit on the horizon, what challenges might both nations face in solidifying this dialogue into a more fruitful partnership?
Dr. Zhang: There are several challenges. First, there’s the ongoing sensitivity surrounding North Korea. Both nations must navigate their policies carefully to avoid upsetting the balance. Economic issues, particularly concerning trade imbalances and supply chain dependencies, also need addressing. Lastly, there’s the context of U.S.-China relations that could complicate matters, especially if there are escalations in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders will need to balance domestic pressures with the desire for improved bilateral ties.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Zhang, for sharing your insights on this important topic. It seems like there are both opportunities and hurdles as we watch this relationship unfold. We appreciate your expertise!
Dr. Zhang: Thank you for inviting me. It was a great conversation!
Editor: To our readers, thank you for joining us for this engaging discussion. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story!