"South Korea and China are inseparable partners and their cooperation has high levels of mutual benefit and strategic importance," Dai said in a written statement after arriving at Gimpo International Airport.
The veteran diplomat emphasized mutual support for upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summits, with South Korea hosting in Gyeongju next year and China in 2026.
"I sincerely hope that South Korea will overcome its difficulties and continue to maintain stability, development, and prosperity," Dai said, in an apparent reference to South Korea's current political crisis following President Yoon Suk Yeol's Dec. 3 martial law declaration and subsequent impeachment.
Dai, who served as China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations from 2020, takes over the position left vacant in July when his predecessor Xing Haiming departed.
"I look forward to engaging with people from all walks of life in South Korea and making good friends," Dai said.
The ambassador pledged to enhance the China-South Korea strategic cooperative partnership.
He expressed hopes that the two countries would work together to protect international free trade systems while fostering conditions favorable for bilateral development and international cooperation.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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