Chinese Foreign Ministry: "President Lee's Visit to Japan Should Help Safeguard Peace"

While the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment on President Lee Jae-myung's upcoming visit to Japan, it stated that exchanges between countries should contribute to the promotion of peace.

President Lee Jae-myung. Photo by Yonhap News

At a regular press briefing on January 9, Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was asked to comment on President Lee Jae-myung’s visit to Japan, which is taking place six days after the conclusion of his trip to China. Mao responded, "The South Korean president’s visit to Japan is a matter between South Korea and Japan," adding, "I will not comment on this."

Mao further stated, "What I would like to emphasize is that exchanges between countries should help promote and safeguard regional peace and stability."

Mao's remarks on the "promotion of peace" align with China's longstanding criticism of Prime Minister Takaiichi for threatening regional security with comments about potential intervention in Taiwan during a crisis. It is also interpreted as a message that South Korea should not side with or support Japan in this context.

President Lee, who paid a state visit to China from January 4 to 7, is scheduled to visit Nara Prefecture, Japan, from January 13 to 14 for a summit meeting and joint press conference with Prime Minister Takaiichi.