Seoul: Chinese President Xi Jinping is seriously considering a visit to South Korea in conjunction with the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, a senior official from China's top legislature said Thursday. Losang Jamcan, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, made the remarks during a meeting with South Korean National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik in Seoul.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Losang emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication on the matter. "President Xi places great importance on a potential visit to South Korea in conjunction with the APEC summit," he was quoted as saying by Woo's office. He further noted China's positive stance on bilateral cultural exchanges, suggesting both nations should continue to build on the recent momentum of active exchanges and cooperation.

In response, Woo urged China to keep attention on Xi's potential trip to South Korea. The APEC summit is scheduled to be hosted by South Korea in Gyeongju, about 275 kilometers southeast of Seoul, from late October to early November. Next year, China will host the multilateral gathering.

Addressing the bilateral free trade agreement, which marked its 10th anniversary this year, Woo called for joint efforts to accelerate follow-up negotiations on services and investment. Such negotiations are expected to enhance bilateral economic cooperation. Additionally, Woo requested China's support for South Korean firms operating in China to ensure they do so "under stable and predictable circumstances," according to his office.