Former Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang has been missing for a year, with no official information about his whereabouts. The Foreign Ministry initially attributed his disappearance to health reasons but has since remained silent on the matter [b1bcda49]. Qin's ties to Chinese leader Xi Jinping helped him rise to the role of ambassador to the U.S. in 2021 and then to Foreign Minister. However, he was replaced as foreign minister in July and stripped of his post as state councilor in October [b1bcda49]. Rumors have circulated about the reasons behind Qin's disappearance, including speculation of an extramarital affair with a British intelligence agent or his involvement in espionage. Other theories suggest he may have been executed, committed suicide, or tortured to death. If Qin can prove that he was unaware of his alleged mistress' spy ties, he may have a case for leniency [b1bcda49]. The official silence surrounding Qin's status reflects indecision among China's senior leadership and breeds fear among senior officials in China's authoritarian system. Despite Qin's downfall, it has not damaged Xi Jinping's political standing [b1bcda49].
In other news, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck is visiting Beijing amid worsening uncertainty in German-Chinese trade ties. Dutch pork exporters are also seeking alternative buyers after China launched an anti-dumping probe. European leaders are being urged to pressure China to use its leverage in discussions with Russia about Ukraine [b1bcda49].
China's People's Liberation Army is facing challenges in integrating artificial intelligence systems into its warfighting platforms. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has approved new arms sales to Taiwan valued at $360 million. China's ambassador to the U.S. has signaled a go-slow approach toward addressing China's role in the U.S. opioid overdose epidemic. China has condemned a congressional delegation's visit to the Dalai Lama and blasted the Resolve Tibet Act passed by the U.S. House. China's official legal representatives are emphasizing the importance of international institutions to boost China's influence and status. Xi Jinping's rise has led to a bolder assertion of China's status as a 'great power,' even challenging international law when it conflicts with China's perception of its prestige or security [b1bcda49].