In early August, the Chinese government made a surprising move by quietly arresting senior diplomat Li Jianchao, who was considered a strong contender for the next foreign minister.
If verified, this could mark one of the highest-level purges in China’s diplomatic sector in years, raising eyebrows over Liu’s sudden removal.
Liu, 61, led the international department of the Communist Party since 2022 and previously held the role of deputy director at the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, enforcing Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign known as “Operation Fox Hunt.”
Until recently, Liu was viewed as a likely successor to Foreign Minister Wang Yi, thanks to his close collaboration with Xi that suggested a solid level of trust. His amicable demeanor in dealings with Western diplomats made him a suitable candidate for a more conciliatory foreign policy, should Xi choose that path.
When Liu led a significant Chinese business and diplomatic delegation to the United States in January 2024, many felt it was a clear indication he was set to take over Wang’s responsibilities. Interestingly, he seemed to enjoy visiting the West more than many other Chinese officials.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSI) referred to him as the “shadow foreign minister,” noting his enthusiasm for promoting Xi’s agenda while criticizing the United States for perceived imbalances.
Liu has been under investigation since Qin’s mysterious disappearance in September 2023. Initially, the government claimed Qin was recovering from health issues, but speculation arose over allegations of corruption.
Some analysts suggest Liu’s fortunes may have taken a downturn following his 2024 trip to the U.S., which some viewed as an informal introduction to foreign affairs.
It’s possible that Liu’s close watch on China-U.S. relations may have led to his questioning, though it seems like a rather extreme measure for sidelining his aspirations.
Japan Times reported on Tuesday that Wang, turning 72 in October, has surpassed the typical retirement age for Chinese officials while simultaneously managing two significant roles within the Communist Party’s international affairs.
With Liu potentially out of the running, the list of successors for Wang appears quite limited. Few candidates have his level of seniority, diplomatic history, charm, and proximity to Xi Jinping. One possibility mentioned is Hua Chunying, a former spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, who has been on a rapid career ascent since becoming vice minister in 2024.
