On January 25, 2007, Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan met with visiting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Song Min-soon in Beijing.

Tang pointed out China is satisfied with the development of bilateral ties and Sino-ROK ties face a favorable opportunity in the new year. He hoped both sides will summarize beneficial experience, continue to explore new approaches and ways for closer strategic communication and cooperation, and consolidate and expand cooperation in all fields, so as to push for bilateral ties, added Tang.

"The six-party talks constitute the realistic and effective way to solving the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula," said Tang. "Recently the parties concerned have carried out helpful contacts and reached some consensus," he said, adding that China is ready to work with the ROK to make the talks resume at an early date and strive for some positive progress.

Song said the two countries have conducted fruitful cooperation in all areas and the ROK is ready to strengthen strategic communication and cooperation with China for new progress of bilateral ties. The ROK is engaged in peaceful solution to the nuclear issue through dialogue and will work closely with China to make the talks achieve new progress as soon as possible, Song said.