MOSCOW, November 10 (RIA Novosti) — China and South Korea might sign a free trade agreement during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit that is currently taking place in Beijing, Yonhap News reported Monday.
"A successful conclusion of a free trade deal between South Korea and China could further boost discussions on economic integration in Asia and the Pacific region," Yonhap News quoted South Korean President Park Geun-hye as saying.
Yonhap News also quoted a South Korean official as saying that Beijing and Seoul "are on the verge of reaching" the pact.
Finalizing the agreement by the end of this year was achieved back in July when the leaders of the two countries met at Seoul, according to Yonhap News.
The APEC summit will seek to join forces against global challenges. The main focus of the summit will be on the creation of a new Asia-Pacific partnership. The Ebola virus, air pollution, terrorism and corruption are also expected to receive attention during the summit.