
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during the G20 summit in South Africa. He told Li he hoped to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing soon. Li said he would deliver the message to Xi.
Lee stressed that communication is vital for building trust between South Korea and China. He said improved dialogue could help manage tensions in the region. Moreover, Li agreed and noted the need for continuous engagement.
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Lee also met Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi during the summit. The two leaders reaffirmed the importance of their bilateral ties amid global uncertainty. Additionally, they agreed to strengthen cooperation as international risks grow.
The meetings signaled Lee’s push to stabilise relations with regional powers. He highlighted that cooperation with neighbours supports wider strategic goals. Furthermore, he said sustained dialogue remains essential despite political challenges.
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During a Sunday speech, Lee pledged to keep the G20 as the top platform for global cooperation. He said South Korea would show strong leadership when it hosts the summit in 2028. His remarks underscored Seoul’s aim to promote stability and collaboration.