A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) met Monday with Lee Sang Deuk, former deputy speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea (ROK), in Beijing. Wang Jiarui, head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, expressed appreciation for Lee's long-standing efforts to promote bilateral friendly exchanges and cooperation. Wang briefed Lee on China's position on the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue. He hoped the two countries could maintain the tradition of close cooperation and jointly contribute to peace and stability in northeast Asia. Lee appreciated China's positive role in maintaining the peace and stability of northeast Asia and hoped to continue cooperation with China. China and the ROK forged diplomatic ties on Aug. 24, 1992. Lee said he was gratified to be visiting on the anniversary. 