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US-China relations
ChinaDiplomacy

New Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang vows to prioritise US ties, tweets praise for Americans

  • The outgoing ambassador to Washington says he is seeking a ‘better China-US relationship’
  • His promotion is widely seen as an effort by Beijing to stabilise relations between the world powers

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Known as one of the toughest voices within the Chinese foreign ministry, Qin Gang took a softer approach during his time as ambassador to Washington. Photo: Kyodo
Laura Zhou
New Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang said he was “deeply impressed” by the American people and pledged to continue to push forward the relationship between the two world powers in his new role.
Qin, who was promoted on Friday, has served as China’s ambassador to the US for the past 17 months – a period he described as “a time of severe challenges for China-US relations”.

“I want to pay sincere thanks to the people of the United States for the strong support and assistance given to me and the Chinese Embassy during this period,” Qin tweeted on Monday evening Washington time.

The outgoing ambassador said he had “made many friends across the US” during his tenure in Washington.

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“I have been deeply impressed by so many hard-working, friendly and talented American people that I met,” Qin added.

The 56-year-old career diplomat, who was previously foreign vice-minister and oversaw media relations and protocol for international visits, said US-China relations would be among his priorities as foreign minister.
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“Going forward, I will continue to care about and support the growth of China-US relations, encourage dialogue, mutual understanding and affinity between the two peoples, work for mutual respect … and make my due efforts for the well-being of the two peoples and for world peace, stability and development.”

01:46

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