### South Korea and China Forge New Path for Peace on the Korean Peninsula Amid APEC Summit In a significant diplomatic development, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed to collaborate on efforts aimed at resuming dialogue with North Korea. This agreement emerged during Xi's first visit to South Korea in over a decade, coinciding with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in Gyeongju. The leaders emphasized the importance of strategic communication and a phased approach to denuclearization, highlighting the need for stability in the region as North Korea continues to expand its nuclear capabilities. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Context of the APEC Summit** - The APEC summit served as a backdrop for the meeting between Lee and Xi, where discussions focused on trade and regional stability. - Xi's visit marked a pivotal moment in Sino-Korean relations, following years of tension over various issues, including trade and North Korea's nuclear ambitions. 2. **Key Agreements and Proposals** - President Lee urged Xi to assist in reviving stalled talks with North Korea, proposing a phased approach to denuclearization that begins with engagement and a freeze on nuclear development. - Both leaders expressed a commitment to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance strategic communication to facilitate dialogue with Pyongyang. 3. **Implications for Regional Stability** - The collaboration between South Korea and China is seen as crucial for addressing the ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. - The recent high-level exchanges between China and North Korea, including Kim Jong Un's attendance at a military parade in Beijing, were noted as potential catalysts for renewed engagement. 4. **Conclusion and Future Outlook** - The meeting between Lee and Xi represents a hopeful step towards stabilizing the region and addressing the North Korean nuclear issue. - As both leaders prepare for future discussions, the focus will remain on fostering cooperation and dialogue to ensure peace and security in Northeast Asia. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Xi's Visit**: This was Xi Jinping's first trip to South Korea in 11 years, highlighting the importance of the meeting [https://www.firstpost.com/world/south-korea-urges-china-to-revive-dialogue-with-north-korea-after-xis-landmark-south-korea-visit-13947028.html]. - **Denuclearization Approach**: Lee proposed a phased approach to denuclearization, emphasizing engagement and a freeze on nuclear development as initial steps [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/south-korean-prez-urges-china-s-xi-to-assist-in-resuming-talks-with-north-korea-101762033424311.html]. - **High-Level Exchanges**: Recent interactions between China and North Korea were cited as beneficial for creating conditions conducive to dialogue [https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2025/11/01/south-koreas-new-leader-faces-diplomatic-tightrope-walk-between-beijing-and-washington/196826]. ### Summary of Findings 1. **Significant Diplomatic Engagement**: The meeting between Lee and Xi during the APEC summit marks a crucial moment in Sino-Korean relations, with both leaders committed to enhancing dialogue with North Korea. 2. **Phased Denuclearization Strategy**: Lee's call for a phased approach to denuclearization reflects a strategic shift towards engagement rather than confrontation. 3. **Potential for Regional Stability**: The collaboration between South Korea and China is essential for addressing the North Korean nuclear threat and fostering peace in the region. In conclusion, the recent summit between South Korea and China signifies a renewed commitment to diplomatic engagement and regional stability, with hopes for a constructive dialogue with North Korea moving forward.