Seoul: South Korea has confirmed that China continues to uphold its traditional position regarding peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, despite China's recent omission of explicit support for North Korea's denuclearization. This information was shared by officials in Seoul on Thursday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the comments followed a meeting in Seoul where Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi refrained from mentioning "denuclearization," opting instead to emphasize China's commitment to "peace and stability." This subtle change in language reflects a recent trend in China's diplomatic approach. During the meeting, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun reiterated Seoul's efforts towards denuclearization and peace, urging China to encourage North Korea to engage in dialogue.

Despite the absence of denuclearization in Wang Yi's remarks, he assured that China would continue to play a constructive role in fostering peace and stability on the peninsula. Ministry spokesperson Park Doo-soon highlighted that China reaffirmed its consistent and stable policy toward the Korean Peninsula during the meeting. The discussions between the two ministers covered a range of topics, including North Korea's nuclear issue.

"As the denuclearization of North Korea was also reaffirmed as a shared goal at the U.S.-China summit in May, we will continue to strengthen communication with China and encourage it to play a constructive role," Park stated.

A foreign ministry official noted that China's reluctance to use the term "denuclearization" could be linked to its relationship with North Korea. However, China is aware of the implications this might have on the international nonproliferation regime. The official added that enhanced strategic communication between South Korea and China could prevent further division between South Korea, the United States, Japan, and the opposing bloc of North Korea, China, and Russia.