24-10-2023 (BEIJING) In a recent development, China has made changes to its leadership positions, with Li Shangfu being removed from his role as defence minister and state councillor, according to state broadcaster CCTV on Tuesday (Oct 24).
The Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, comprising the country’s top lawmakers, has also voted to remove former foreign minister Qin Gang from his position as state councillor, as reported by CCTV. In their place, Yin Hejun has been appointed as China’s science and technology minister, while Lan Foan takes on the role of finance minister.
This reshuffling marks the second leadership change in China within a span of three months, following the sudden replacement of foreign minister Qin Gang back in July.
Li Shangfu had not made any public appearances for several weeks, raising speculations about his status, especially after he missed a meeting in Vietnam in early September.
Li had assumed his position as defence minister in March. His actions and decisions were closely monitored by diplomats and observers, given that, like Qin Gang, he held the position of one of China’s five State Councillors, a cabinet-level role that holds higher rank than that of a regular minister.
Just in on Chinese state media:
Li Shangfu removed from posts of State Councilor and defence minister
Qin Gang (former foreign minister) removed from post of State Councilor pic.twitter.com/Z5lsFnhPCS
— Olivia Siong (@OliviaSiongCNA) October 24, 2023
