Former Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang Demoted to Low-Level Publishing Job

Qin Gang, China's former Foreign Minister, has been demoted to a publishing job after his mysterious disappearance, according to a Washington Post report. Suspicions had swirled around his fate, but US officials confirm he is alive. The demotion ends his career after rapid political ascension.

Qin Gang, the ex-Foreign Minister of China, has been demoted to a low-level publishing job, according to a report by The Washington Post. Qin's mysterious disappearance had sparked intense speculation, but US officials confirm he is alive, albeit in a significantly diminished role.

Former US officials disclosed that Qin, now 58, has been nominally reassigned to World Affairs Press, a state-owned publication linked to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The demotion reportedly took place in the spring and is seen not only as a punishment but as a cautionary tale.

The rapid rise and dramatic fall of Qin Gang has captivated observers. Once a trusted Xi Jinping loyalist, Qin's career soared, only to crumble amid rumours of personal indiscretions and security vulnerabilities involving a well-known Chinese journalist. His departure marked the end of a brief yet aggressive diplomatic tenure.

(With inputs from agencies.)