中 "Speaker Park Byeong-seok's Olympic Visit 'Welcomed'... Strengthening Bilateral Exchange and Cooperation"

Park Byeong-seok, Speaker of the National Assembly / Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] Regarding Speaker of the National Assembly Park Byeong-seok's planned visit to China during the Beijing Winter Olympics, the Chinese government welcomed it, stating that it "reflects the friendly relationship between China and Korea."

On the 25th, Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a regular briefing, "China welcomes Speaker Park Byeong-seok's visit to China to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics."

He emphasized, "China and Korea are important friendly neighboring countries to each other and are celebrating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. As the host of the previous Winter Olympics, Korea has consistently supported the successful hosting of the Beijing Winter Olympics, which aligns with the Olympic spirit and reflects the friendly relationship between China and Korea."

He added, "China will work with Korea to practice the Olympic spirit of 'further unity' and, at the same time, use the Beijing Winter Olympics as an opportunity to strengthen friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries in various fields."

Speaker Park plans to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics on the 4th of next month, discuss ways to expand parliamentary exchanges between the two countries on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations during his visit, and encourage the Korean athletes participating in the Beijing Olympics.