China, South Korea agree to normalise co-operation “as soon as possible”

BEIJING - China and South Korea have been maintaining communications on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue through diplomatic channels, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Tuesday. "Enhancing communication and co-operation is in accordance with the common interests of China and the ROK, a Ministry press release said. “Both sides agree to return communication and co-operation in various fields to the normal track as soon as possible."

According to the release, both sides agreed to enhance strategic communication and co-operation with an aim of facilitating a solution to the nuclear issue through all necessary diplomatic efforts.

The release said the ROK had acknowledged China's stance and concerns on the deployment of the U>S> THAAD missile system. "The ROK made it clear that the deployment of THAAD will not target any third country, and will not harm China's strategic security and interests," the release said. www.webershandwick.cn (ATI).