High Profile Ousters in China's Central Committee Amid Anti-Corruption Push

China's Communist Party has expelled former foreign minister Qin Gang and defence minister Li Shangfu from its Central Committee. This comes amid a significant anti-corruption campaign led by President Xi Jinping. The party's third plenum approved the removals, signaling severe political consequences for the officials involved.

China's Communist Party has removed Qin Gang, former foreign minister, and Li Shangfu, former defence minister, from its Central Committee. This decision was made during the party's third plenum, with state news agency Xinhua reporting the development.

The party's third plenum, a significant meeting held every five years, concluded on Thursday. It aims to outline the nation's long-term policies. The removal of Central Committee members, including Qin Gang and Li Shangfu, was confirmed during this session due to 'serious violations of discipline and law,' a phrase commonly associated with corruption.

President Xi Jinping has been leading a thorough anti-corruption drive since taking office in 2012, targeting high-profile officials to strengthen party discipline. In a stark contrast, Qin Gang remains a party member, but Li Shangfu and others face severe consequences, highlighting the campaign's extensive reach.

(With inputs from agencies.)