Antony Blinken with Wang Yi
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Wednesday that he hopes to work well with China’s new foreign minister, following the unexpected removal of former incumbent Qin Gang from office.
“I’ve known Wang Yi for over a decade. I’ve met with him several times”, Blinken remarked, referring to the new top diplomat.
“I anticipate being able to work well with him as we have in the past”, he continued.
“It is important for us to manage this relationship responsibly. That starts with diplomacy, that starts with engaging, and I will work with whoever the relevant Chinese counterpart is”, he continued.
Blinken stated that the removal of Qin, who had not been seen in public since June 25, was a sovereign decision made by China.
There has been no official explanation for his removal or disappearance from public view.
“Qin Gang was the Chinese ambassador to Washington. I met him while he was an ambassador. I had constructive discussions with him as foreign minister, and I wish him well”, Blinken added.
Qin’s disappearance fuelled rumors that the 57-year-old, a confidant of President Xi Jinping, had fallen out of favor or was under investigation.
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