Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Seoul to discuss North Korea's nuclear issue and the timing of the Chinese president's visit to Seoul.

Before the talks at the foreign ministry on Monday, the Chinese foreign minister said that China hopes to choose South Korea as its close partner to cope with changes in the state of affairs in the international community and new regions.

Wang, who arrived in Seoul on Monday for a two-day visit, said that Beijing hopes to cooperate with Seoul in their prosperity and development, protect peace on the Korean Peninsula and pursue the progress of Asia.

He stressed that the two countries have a great relationship now and it is the result of active efforts by the leaders of the two nations.

Minister Yun said that Wang’s visit to South Korea would reaffirm the two nations’ common positions that they do not approve the North’s nuclear weapons and they will seek peace and stability on the peninsula.

Yun also said that Wang’s visit is significant as it comes when Chinese President Xi Jinping will likely visit South Korea in the near future.

President Xi is expected to visit Seoul late next month.