By Kim Han-joo
The Prime Minister’s Office announced on Tuesday that Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will be attending the opening ceremony of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China this week. Han will depart for China on Saturday and will be present at the ceremony on Sunday.
Vice Culture Minister Jang Mi-ran, an Olympic gold medalist in weightlifting, is expected to accompany Han, according to a presidential official.
When asked about the possibility of a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Prime Minister said that a gathering of chief delegates from participating countries may be held by Xi, but he could not confirm if there will be a separate meeting.
Han expressed the South Korean government’s commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with China, citing ongoing efforts to organize a trilateral summit with Japan and China.
He suggested that his trip should be seen as a sign of the government’s dedication to strengthening South Korea-China ties.
South Korea usually sends its Culture Minister to such events.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo speaks to reporters at the government complex in Seoul on Sept. 19, 2023. (Yonhap)
khj@yna.co.kr
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