China dismisses President Xi Jinping’s trusted aide and foreign minister Qin Gang

On Tuesday, Chin replaced its outspoken foreign minister Qin Gang with Wang Yi, who had previously held the position. The country’s highest legislative body met in order to consider a proposed change to the penal code and make decisions about official appointment and dismissal. The decision was made in the midst of international criticism of China’s escalatingly assertive foreign policy, which Qin was a leading proponent.

Nearly a month after disappearing from view amid rumors of his extramarital relationships and political conflicts, Qin Gan has been fired. The government’s most recent decision, however, has not been fully explained by the official media.

The 57-year-old’s last recent public appearances were on June 25. He was chosen for the position in December and was regarded as Xi Jinping’s closest assistant in China.

In line with the Communist Party’s typical approach to personnel problems in a very opaque political system where the media and free expression are heavily regulated, the ministry has not disclosed any information about Qin’s position.

On Tuesday, the ministry remained silent at its regular briefing.