China Appoints Liu Haixing as New Head of Communist Party’s International Department

The Communist Party of China has appointed Liu Haixing as the new head of its international department, effective September 30, 2023. This unexpected change comes as a replacement for Liu Jianchao, who is reportedly under investigation for disciplinary issues. The international department plays a crucial role in managing the party’s relations with foreign political entities.

Liu Haixing, 62, previously served as the director of the foreign ministry’s European department. His extensive experience includes a senior role in a powerful party commission overseeing national security. Liu Haixing’s academic background includes studies in Paris during the 1980s, which contributes to his international perspective.

The circumstances surrounding the removal of Liu Jianchao, 61, remain unclear. He has not been seen in public for over two months, with sources indicating that he was detained after returning from a work trip to Singapore, South Africa, and Algeria, which concluded on July 30, 2023. The Communist Party’s international department did not respond to inquiries regarding Liu Jianchao’s current status.

Liu Jianchao was viewed as a potential candidate for the position of foreign minister. Born in Jilin Province, he majored in English at Beijing Foreign Studies University and studied international relations at Oxford University. His career included roles as a translator at the foreign ministry, as well as diplomatic postings in China’s missions in Britain and as ambassador to Indonesia and the Philippines. He gained recognition as a spokesperson for the ministry, known for his humorous yet firm defense of China’s interests.

The transition in leadership reflects the ongoing dynamics within the Communist Party as it navigates international relations amid various challenges. The exact relation between Liu Haixing and Liu Jianchao has not been disclosed, adding another layer of intrigue to this sudden leadership change.

As China continues to assert its influence globally, the new head of the international department will likely play a significant role in shaping the country’s diplomatic strategy in the coming years.