Key facts
- China replaced Liu Jinsong, director-general of its Asian Affairs Department.
- The replacement followed a diplomatic incident involving Liu Jinsong.
- Liu Jinsong was seen with his hands in his pockets during a meeting with a Japanese counterpart.
- The action was perceived as disrespectful.
- The replacement occurs amid heightened tensions between China and Japan.
China has replaced Liu Jinsong, the director-general of its Asian Affairs Department, in the wake of a diplomatic incident. The incident involved Liu standing with his hands in his pockets during a meeting with a Japanese counterpart, an action that was reportedly perceived as disrespectful. This personnel change comes at a time of heightened tensions between China and Japan. The specific circumstances and the exact date of the meeting were not detailed, but the replacement signifies a response to the perceived diplomatic slight. Liu Jinsong had held the position within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, overseeing relations with Asian nations. His departure from this key role suggests a move to address diplomatic protocol breaches or to recalibrate engagement strategies with Japan. The broader context of China-Japan relations is marked by ongoing disputes over territory, trade, and regional influence, making such diplomatic interactions particularly sensitive.