Seoul: Unification Minister Chung Dong-young announced on Thursday that a potential summit between Pyongyang and Washington might be on the agenda if China's President Xi Jinping visits North Korea.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Xi Jinping is speculated to make a state visit later this month or early next month. This speculation arises from recent visits by Xi's security guards and ceremonial staff to Pyongyang, which are seen as indicators of a possible visit. Minister Chung informed reporters outside the government complex in Seoul that if Xi's visit occurs, discussions about a Kim-Trump summit "will surely be discussed." However, he noted that Beijing has not yet confirmed the visit.

Minister Chung highlighted the significance of current geopolitical shifts, stating, "Gigantic tectonic plates are in motion," in reference to recent summits among the United States, China, and Russia. He emphasized the importance of contemplating strategic options for stability, peace, and mutual prosperity amidst these changes affecting Northeast Asia, particularly the Korean Peninsula.

Seoul has been actively seeking to repair strained inter-Korean relations and has reportedly worked to place North Korea-related issues on the agenda of the recent Trump-Xi summit.