China's Communist Party Endorses Key Resignations Amid Anti-Corruption Campaign

China's ruling Communist Party accepted the resignation of former foreign minister Qin Gang and endorsed the expulsion of former defense minister Li Shangfu and two top generals. The decisions were made during a Central Committee meeting focused on improving the economy and intensifying anti-corruption efforts within the military.

China's ruling Communist Party on Thursday accepted the resignation of sacked foreign minister Qin Gang from its Central Committee and endorsed the decision to expel former defence minister Li Shangfu and two other top Generals from the party.

The move was confirmed during a high-level meeting of the party's Central Committee, which concluded on Thursday. According to a communique issued after the four-day third plenum session, the committee accepted 'Comrade Qin Gang's resignation.'

Qin, aged 58, vanished from public view in 2023 after serving as China's shortest-serving foreign minister. Despite his resignation, Qin's whereabouts remain unknown. He was replaced by his predecessor Wang Yi. The committee also ratified the Politburo's prior decision to expel Gen. Li Shangfu and senior military officers Li Yuchao and Sun Jinming for alleged corruption and indiscipline, as part of President Xi Jinping's ongoing anti-corruption campaign within the armed forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)