China blasted “malicious hype” around the abrupt removal of Qin Gang. The Foreign Ministry’s fumbling response pointed to its diminished influence under Xi Jinping.
Qin Gang has not made a public appearance in three weeks. The Communist Party’s habitual secrecy around top officials has fueled speculation over the reasons for his absence.
China has pushed to set the terms of its re-engagement with the Biden administration, rebuffing a request for a defense meeting while urging Washington to drop sanctions.
Xi Jinping wants to insulate China from perceived threats from the West. He also wants to promote the country as deserving of foreign investment and clout. Can he do both?