China announced significant changes in its top leadership on Tuesday, with the removal of Defence Minister Li Shangfu and former Foreign Minister Qin Gang from their respective cabinet positions.

State media reported that these decisions were made during the sixth meeting of the standing committee of the People’s Republic of China’s 14th National People’s Congress on October 24, 2023. 

According to state broadcaster CCTV, Li Shangfu was removed from his roles as a State Council member and Minister of Defence. 

Simultaneously, Qin Gang was also removed from his position on the State Council. These changes mark a notable reshuffling within the Chinese leadership, reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to adapt and evolve its key positions.