On December 30, 2009, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi met with the new ambassador of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to China Yu Woo-ik. Yang expressed welcome for Yu Woo-ik to assume his new office in China, saying that with the joint efforts of both sides, China-ROK relations have achieved rapid development and both countries have established a strategic partnership of cooperation. China is ready to work with the ROK to continue enhancing exchanges and cooperation in all areas, safeguard and expand common interests and push forward bilateral ties. Yang hoped that Ambassador Yu Woo-ik will play an important role during his tenure for advancing bilateral ties.

Yu Woo-ik agreed with Foreign Minister Yang’s comments on China-ROK ties. The new ambassador pledged he and the ROK Embassy in China will maintain close communication and cooperation with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant departments to contribute to the development of bilateral ties.