Chinese Ambassador Urges Korea-China FTA

Chinese Ambassador to Seoul Zhang Xinsen on Monday urged Korean businesses to invest more in China. "The growth potential of the Chinese market is expected to more than double over the next five years, and the purchasing power of China's middle class is also growing," Zhang told a seminar hosted by the Chungcheong Forum. "At a time when countries around the world are researching ways to enter this market, I hope that our Korean friends will not fall behind and find successful opportunities."

Zhang stressed the two countries need to speed up negotiations for a free trade agreement for the benefit of both countries.

In remarks on North Korea, the envoy stuck to the official Chinese line. "The Korean Peninsula is in a difficult political situation, but China is seeking dialogue by various means," the ambassador said. He also stressed that long-term peace and stability can be achieved "through the six-party talks."

Asked whether Beijing's support for Pyongyang following the sinking of the Navy corvette Cheonan and shelling of Yeonpyeong Island disappointed Seoul, Zhang said China has recommended "self-restraint, dialogue and cooperation" to maintain peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.