27-2-2024 (BEIJING) In a surprising move, Qin Gang, the former Foreign Minister of China, has resigned from his position as a deputy in the National People’s Congress (NPC). The announcement came on February 27, just days before a crucial national meeting in Beijing. Qin’s resignation was confirmed by the NPC’s Standing Committee, which stated that he was neither dismissed nor expelled from the legislative body.
Qin Gang’s departure from the NPC raises questions about the reasons behind his resignation and whether he will be replaced. The Tianjin People’s Congress has accepted his resignation, but no further details have been provided. As a deputy, Qin’s responsibilities included participating in NPC sessions, deliberating bills and reports, and submitting bills within the scope of the NPC’s authority.
The timing of Qin’s resignation is significant as it precedes the “Two Sessions” gathering scheduled to take place in Beijing on March 5. This annual political event brings together top political bodies and the legislature in China, with over a thousand delegates convening to discuss and make important policy announcements. Qin’s absence from this crucial meeting raises speculation about the implications of his departure for China’s political landscape.
Qin Gang’s political career has been marked by notable positions and changes. He served as China’s Foreign Minister for seven months after his appointment in December 2022 but was removed from the post in July 2023. In October 2023, he was also ousted from the position of State Councillor. Prior to his role as Foreign Minister, Qin served as China’s Ambassador to the United States from 2021 to 2023.
During his tenure as Foreign Minister, Qin expressed China’s position on Taiwan while also expressing optimism in pursuing stable ties. Notably, in June 2023, he held extensive talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, lasting over seven hours. Following his removal from office, Qin did not make any public appearances, and the Chinese foreign ministry cited “health reasons” for his absence.
