Li calls for closer China-S Korea parliamentary cooperation

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (third right) meets with the South Korean National Assembly Speaker Chung Ui-hwa in Seoul, capital of the ROK, Nov 1, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

Dovetailing the development strategies of South Korea and China will contribute to the stability and prosperity in Northeast Asia, he said, adding that his country is willing to work with China to carry on their profound traditional friendship and forge a lasting bond as good neighbors, good friends and good partners.

The South Korean parliament, he said, stands ready to play a positive role in promoting bilateral ties, and will endeavor to conclude domestic legislative procedures within this year over the South Korea-China free trade agreement (FTA).

China and South Korea inked the landmark FTA in June. Under the deal, South Korea will eliminate tariffs on 92 percent of all imports from China within 20 years after its implementation, while China is to abolish tariffs on 91 percent of all imported South Korean goods.

Li arrived in Seoul on Saturday for the ongoing three-day trip, which also includes a trilateral summit with Japanese and South Korean leaders later Sunday.