Beijing, China – The Republic of Korea (ROK) and China convened their 22nd round of consular consultations in Beijing on March 13th, marking a significant step in bilateral relations. The meeting, held after a five-and-a-half-year hiatus since October 2019, served as a platform for both nations to exchange views on a range of consular matters.
According to the ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the consultations were led by Yoon Joo-hyeo, Director-General of the Consular Affairs Bureau of the ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Long Zhou, Director-General of the Department of Consular Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the meeting, Director-General Yoon lauded China’s recent implementation of a visa-free policy for South Korean tourists, a move expected to boost tourism from the ROK to China. Furthermore, Yoon emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of South Korean citizens residing in or visiting China, urging the Chinese government to provide necessary assistance and attention to their concerns.
The resumption of consular consultations after a prolonged period underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthening communication and cooperation on consular affairs. These discussions are crucial for addressing the practical needs of citizens traveling and residing in each other’s countries, as well as for fostering a more stable and predictable environment for bilateral exchanges.
The meeting also highlights the ongoing efforts to manage and improve ROK-China relations, which have been a key focus of South Korean diplomacy in recent months. As noted by Yonhap News Agency, the ROK is actively promoting tourism to South Korea and working to maintain a positive relationship with China.
The successful completion of the 22nd round of consular consultations signals a positive trajectory for ROK-China relations, paving the way for continued dialogue and collaboration on consular matters in the years to come.
References:
- Yonhap News Agency. (2024, March 13). 韩中第二十二轮领事磋商在京举行 [ROK and China Hold 22nd Round of Consular Consultations in Beijing]. Retrieved from [Insert URL if available, otherwise omit]
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