Peking University, Nov. 8, 2012: Unification Minister of South Korea Yu Woo-Ik visited PKU under an invitation, and was received by Vice President Li Yansong at the Chaitai International Center.
Mr. Yu and Prof. Li Yansong
Afterwards, Yu Woo-Ik delivered a speech titled “The Situation in East Asia and the Future of Sino-Korean Relationship” at the “Kim Koo Forum” jointly held by the Center for International and Strategic Studies at PKU.
The site of the “Kim Koo Forum”
In this speech, Yu pointed out that it is a crucial point at present for East Asia, including both Korea and China. For East Asia, as it is the center of such an “era of change” with peace and prosperity, it is rather promising for the countries to move beyond traditional thinking to realize geo-political reconciliation in East Asia.
Yu delivers the speech.
In Yu’s eyes, facing the 20th birthday of the diplomatic relations between South Korea and China, there lies positive opportunity for the two countries to continue cooperating on strengthening the position of East Asia’s economic status and promoting the growth of global trading and investment.
As to the issue of the reunification of Korean Peninsula, Yu Woo-Ik stressed that it is a key point for keeping peace and prosperity in East Asia, where Korea would play an active role through extensive exchange and cooperation. He showed his belief that South Korea and China would have a tighter relationship on the basis of mutual understanding and respect.
As last, he called on PKUers to make a contribution to the reunification of Korean Peninsula, for the peace and prosperity of East Asia for the reunification would guarantee China to realize its modernization by providing a peaceful and stable international environment.
Before the speech, Professor Wang Jisi, head of the Center and the host, made a brief introduction of Yu Woo-Ik’s personal background and his friendship with PKU, expressing special gratitude for his significant contribution to promote the bilateral relationship during his tenure as Korean ambassador to China from 2009 to 2011.
Prof. Wang presents a gift to Yu.
Minister Yu also showed his greeting to PKU staff and students, and then reviewed his former visits to the University.
Group photo of some attendees with Yu
Written by: Bai Bing
Edited by: Arthars
Source: PKU News (Chinese)
