Outgoing Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing took many by surprise when he appeared at a function last night for foreign diplomats and media representatives.
Despite the news on Thursday that he would retire in favour of Yang Jiechi, he was expected to give a speech on foreign policy, which had been arranged some weeks ago.
But, instead of a speech, he came to say goodbye.
'We will maintain peace and friendship,' he said, after shaking hands and hugging guests at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse gathering.
His appearance earned a big round of applause - something he has often enjoyed during his four-year tenure.
Mr Li is popular among diplomats and students but is no stranger to criticism. His pugnacious style in confronting China's critics, and his tendency to show off his poetry-writing skills and Shandong dialect have been criticised as undiplomatic.