SEOUL, June 25 (Yonhap) -- The government of President Yoon Suk Yeol sees "no need" to sour ties with China, Foreign Minister Park Jin said Sunday, as a Chinese envoy's controversial remarks on South Korea's U.S. policies fueled a diplomatic spat earlier this month.

Park also stressed that Seoul will continue to step up communication with Beijing to boost their friendly ties during an interview with Yonhap News TV.

"The basic stance of the Yoon Suk Yeol government is to advance South Korea-China relations into that of a mature and healthy one based on mutual respect, reciprocity and common interest," he said.

Earlier this month, Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Xing Haiming said those who bet on Beijing's loss in its rivalry with Washington would "definitely regret it," apparently accusing South Korea of aligning with the U.S. and shifting away from China.

Park reiterated his criticism of Xing, saying it was inappropriate behavior as a "diplomat."