On August 20, 2024, Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong met with the youth delegation of the Republic of Korea (ROK) visiting China.

Chen Xiaodong said, China and the ROK are close neighbors and inseparable partners of cooperation. China and the ROK enjoy geographical proximity, cultural affinity and close exchanges since ancient times with a time-honored friendship between the two peoples. Strengthening youth exchanges and mutual visits is crucial to promoting the long-term development of China-ROK relations. The ROK delegation's visit is a concrete measure to implement the common understandings reached between Premier Li Qiang and President Yoon Suk Yeol at their meeting in May this year, marking the official resumption of youth exchanges and mutual visits between the two countries that were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Chen Xiaodong expressed the hope that the ROK delegation will appreciate China's beautiful natural scenery, gain a deeper understanding of its rich history and culture, experience the vitality of its development, make Chinese friends, support and care for the development of China-ROK relations, and contribute to enhancing China-ROK friendship.

Head of the delegation and Executive Vice-President of the Korea Foundation Lee Jong-kook thanked the Chinese side for the warm invitation and reception, saying that the two governments actively support youth exchanges and mutual visits between the ROK and China, which reflects the great importance both sides attach to bilateral relations. The ROK side is ready to work with the Chinese side to further invigorate youth exchanges between the two countries and boost the development of bilateral relations.