The Journal.
The Missing Minister: The Vanishing of Qin Gang
Dec 30, 2024
Ling Ling Wei, the Chief China Correspondent, investigates the mysterious disappearance of China's former foreign minister, Qin Gang. She discusses his rise in politics and critical role under Xi Jinping. The conversation highlights a chaotic meeting that shaped his career and explores his last public appearances, stirring speculation about corruption and political implications. Wei also reflects on her personal experiences with Qin, shedding light on his ambitious nature and the tumultuous diplomatic challenges he faced.
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Quick takeaways
- Qin Gang's sudden disappearance from public view after a rapid political ascent highlights the opaque nature of Chinese politics and internal power dynamics.
- Speculation surrounding Qin's absence suggests potential personal misconduct linked to an affair that may have threatened national security.
Deep dives
The Disappearance of a Political Star
Qin Gang, China's former foreign minister, vanished from public view after June 25, 2022, sparking widespread speculation regarding his abrupt disappearance. Initially active in fulfilling his duties, including meeting foreign ministers from Sri Lanka and Vietnam, Qin suddenly stopped appearing in state media and skipped significant international meetings. This absence raised questions on social media and prompted foreign journalists to seek clarification from China's foreign ministry, which provided no substantial answers regarding his situation. The stark contrast between Qin's previous prominence and his sudden absence highlighted concerns about internal political dynamics and possible repercussions within the Chinese government.
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