China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) should further strengthen strategic communication and coordination, and contribute to regional peace and stability, said State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan.

Meeting with Kim Young Won, head of a ROK-Japan cultural exchange meeting and Park Sam-Koo, chairman of the Republic of Korea (ROK)-China Friendship Association here Monday, Tang said the current international situation is complicated, and the two countries should deepen exchanges and cooperation.

2007 marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of China-ROK diplomatic ties and the China-ROK Year of Exchange.

Tang said he hopes the two countries can take the opportunity to promote bilateral relationship in various fields, enhance friendship and create a brighter future.

Tang also called for China, ROK and Japan -- three major countries in East Asia -- to work together for regional peace, stability and prosperity.

He said the improvement and development of Sino-Japanese relations and ROK-Japanese relations, as well as the growing cooperation among the three countries, will benefit the whole region and foster peace, stability and prosperity.

Tang said China is willing to work with the ROK and Japan to promote exchanges and cooperation in various fields.

The ROK guests said common interests between the two countries had increased since the establishment of diplomatic relations 15 years ago. The ROK side is willing to further promote bilateral cultural and economic exchanges and cooperation, and continue to strengthen cooperation among the ROK, China and Japan.

The ROK delegation was invited by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries to attend the second China-ROK-Japan cultural forum.

Source: Xinhua