The Journal.
The Missing Minister, Episode 2: The Affair
Oct 18, 2024
Ling Ling Wei, Chief China Correspondent, discusses the high-profile case of Fu Xiaotian, a prominent TV host embroiled in a scandalous affair with diplomat Qin Gang, who also vanished mysteriously. Joe Parkinson shares insights into Fu's ambitious career and social connections that add layers to her disappearance. The conversation uncovers the implications of their relationship on national security and highlights Fu's glamorous yet complicated life before her abrupt end. Secrets around them continue to unfold, leaving many questions unanswered.
27:04
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Quick takeaways
- Fu Xiaotian's successful media career thrived through prestigious connections but faced disruption amidst her tumultuous personal life and affair with Qin Gang.
- The mysterious disappearances of Qin Gang and Fu Xiaotian highlight how personal relationships intertwine with complex national security issues in China's political landscape.
Deep dives
Qin Gang's Early Life and Affair
Qin Gang, before rising to prominent roles like China's foreign minister, spent a decade in the UK, where he developed a love for British culture and sports. During this time, he met Fu Xiaotian, a young and ambitious TV journalist, and they began a brief affair. Their relationship, described by acquaintances as passionate yet short-lived, would resurface many years later when Qin became China's ambassador to the U.S. The influence of this affair became significant as it later contributed to their mysterious disappearances, suggesting deeper implications for both of their careers.
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