Wang Yi’s return as China’s foreign minister is a signal of continuity
- There is bound to be speculation about why Qin Gang was ousted just seven months into the job but his replacement, who held the post for nearly 10 years, is well respected around the world and brings stability during uncertain times
The replacement of Qin Gang by his predecessor Wang Yi as foreign minister may do little to stop the speculation over one of China’s most high-profile political dramas in recent years. But it does help restore stability and enables the country to push ahead with a heavily loaded diplomatic agenda.
This is especially important as the international environment becomes increasingly volatile.
The announcement has ended a month-long guessing game over Qin’s absence from official duties. He was last seen in public during a meeting of senior diplomats from Russia, Vietnam and Sri Lanka on June 25.
The official silence over his prolonged disappearance until Tuesday has inevitably fuelled speculation inside and outside diplomatic circles.
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The foreign ministry has a packed calendar ahead. It could not afford to have the top post vacant for too long.
The terse statement about the change gave no reason why Qin was ousted just seven months after his appointment. It is also intriguing that Qin’s status as a state councillor, same as the level of a vice-premier, remains intact for now.
Until more details surface, speculation about his ouster may well linger. How this affects the future restructuring of the ministry remains to be seen.
But it is not going to affect China’s foreign policy in a major way. The foreign minister is, after all, the executor rather than the policymaker.
Understandably, the lack of transparency has fuelled speculation and perception, but it will not affect China’s foreign policy in any sense. There is also no sign of a power struggle or instability, unlike in the past when abrupt personnel changes were often portrayed as related to political infighting.
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Indeed, Wang’s appointment signals continuity. His return to the front line underlines China’s awareness of the delicacy of diplomatic relations with others.
It is also a sign of assurance of the continuity of China’s foreign policy amid a volatile international environment.
As the former foreign minister for nearly a decade, Wang is no stranger to his overseas counterparts. While he was known for his tough stance on the international stage, he also won recognition for being able to navigate tough issues with his seasoned diplomatic skills.
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Wang’s status as a member of the Politburo makes him the most powerful foreign minister in years; his return will help restore stability and continuity on the diplomatic front.
Reiterating the importance of dialogue, the United States said it would continue to engage with Wang and other Chinese officials. This is easier said than done.
Both sides need to work harder to create the conditions for more high-level exchange so as to narrow their differences.
