In a telephone conversation held on Tuesday (Feb 6), China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed the hope that South Korea would adopt a "positive, objective, and friendly" approach towards Beijing, as reported by China's foreign ministry. Highlighting the close economic relationship between China and South Korea, Wang emphasized the importance of collaboration to uphold stability and ensure the smooth operation of industrial and supply chains.

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, during the same call, urged China to play a "constructive role" in addressing North Korea's military provocations and assisting North Korean defectors who face the risk of involuntary repatriation, according to a statement from South Korea's foreign ministry.

Wang extended an invitation to Cho for a visit to China, with discussions ongoing between both countries to facilitate the proposed visit, as indicated by the ministry. The exchange of perspectives on the situation in the Korean Peninsula was also part of the discussions between the two countries' ministries.