New Chinese Ambassador to Korea Dai Bing speaks during a press conference upon arrivial at Gimpo International Airport in Seoul, Friday. Yonhap

Dai Bing, the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Korea, formally assumed his position on Friday, pledging to enhance the strategic cooperative partnership between the two nations.

In his inaugural address, Dai highlighted the significance of mutual benefits and win-win collaborations in fostering bilateral relations.

"It is a great honor to assume the position of the 9th Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of Korea," Dai said in a statement. "I feel a profound sense of mission and responsibility and will firmly uphold the initial intentions of diplomatic relations, solidify friendly cooperation and adhere to the principles of mutual benefit and win-win collaboration."

Dai underscored the historical ties and achievements between Korea and China, noting that the 32 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations have seen significant progress.

"The joint efforts of both countries have yielded significant achievements in exchanges and cooperation across various fields," he said. "This mutual assistance has greatly benefited both nations' peoples and contributed significantly to regional and global peace and prosperity."

Amid global changes and challenges, Dai emphasized the strategic importance of Korea-China relations.

"Currently, the world is experiencing unprecedented changes, and China-Korea relations are also at a crucial stage of inheriting the past and forging the future," he said. "China and Korea are inseparable neighbors and indispensable partners whose cooperation is highly reciprocal and strategic."

Looking ahead, Dai expressed optimism about the future of bilateral cooperation, particularly in light of both nations' roles in the United Nations Security Council and the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings.

"We hope to strengthen cooperation with Korea to promote regional peace and stability, support each other's successful hosting of the APEC meetings, and uphold the international free trade system," Dai said. "This will create favorable conditions and environments for the joint development of our two countries and the solidarity and cooperation of the international community."

Dai also reiterated the Chinese government's commitment to the welfare of its citizens in Korea. "Together with my colleagues at the Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in Korea, I will implement diplomacy for the people, consistently providing consular assistance and services to overseas Chinese, Chinese institutions, students and Chinese citizens visiting Korea," he said.

This assignment marks Dai's first time working in Korea, and he expressed eagerness to engage with local communities and build lasting friendships.

"I hope to enhance exchanges and interactions with people from all walks of life in Korea, make many new and good friends, deepen mutual understanding and trust, strengthen friendships and promote cooperation," he said.

As the New Year approaches, Dai extended his best wishes to both the Korean and the Chinese community in the country.

"I sincerely wish Korea to overcome challenges and continue its path of stability, development and prosperity," he said. "I also genuinely wish all Chinese compatriots in Korea a Happy New Year, filled with happiness and the fulfillment of all your aspirations."