ANKARA

China and South Korea’s top diplomats discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote regional stability during a phone call ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, China’s Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his South Korean counterpart, Cho Hyun, on a range of bilateral issues, including preparations for the upcoming APEC summit in the southeastern South Korean city of Gyeongju, scheduled to begin on Oct. 31, according to a statement from Beijing.

“China always attaches great importance to its relations with the ROK (Republic of Korea), and is willing to work with the ROK to enhance mutual trust, overcome disruptions, deepen cooperation, help each other succeed, and jointly contribute to regional peace, stability, development and prosperity,” Wang said, according to the ministry.

South Korean media reported that the two foreign ministers also discussed a possible visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to South Korea later this month.

President Xi is expected to attend the two-day APEC summit, though his visit has not yet been officially confirmed.

Separately, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said US President Donald Trump and Xi are expected to meet in South Korea later this month.

On Saturday, South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, citing a ruling party official, reported that Trump is expected to arrive in the country on Oct. 29, though his schedule is still being coordinated between Seoul and Washington.