Summary:
- Li had to pull out of a meeting with Vietnamese defense leaders last week due to allegedly having a health condition
- There has been no official statement from the Chinese government regarding Li's absence
- Li is watched closely by diplomats and observers as he holds a highly ranked position and was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2018
China's defense minister Li Shang-Fu has not been seen in public for more than two weeks, causing a mystery regarding his whereabouts
China's Defense Minister Li Shang-Fu Has Not Been Seen in Public For Two Weeks
China's defense minister, Li Shang-Fu, has not been seen in public for over two weeks. This has caused confusion amongst the media and Chinese citizens alike. Li's sudden disappearance has also led to speculation regarding his whereabouts and the reason for his absence.
Postponement of the Meeting With Vietnamese Defense Leaders
The mystery surrounding Li's absence intensified when he abruptly pulled out of a meeting with Vietnamese defense leaders last week. Three officials who are aware of the situation state that the reason for the postponement was due to a health condition. It is unclear what this health condition was or whether it is severe.
No Response from Chinese Authorities
Chinese authorities, including the defense and foreign ministries, have not immediately commented on the matter. This has heightened concerns and speculation into the situation. Li's disappearance follows the replacement of the Foreign Minister, Qin Gang, in July, following his prolonged absence from public life. The Chinese leadership roster was shaken up recently, including the leadership of the People's Liberation Army's elite rocket force.
Li's Appointment as Defense Chief in March
Li was appointed defense chief in March and is carefully monitored by diplomats and other observers. He, like Qin, is also one of China's five state counselors, a high-ranking position above a regular minister, which heightens the mystery and speculation surrounding his absence.
Li's Controversial Appointment and History
Li's association with the buying of weapons from Russia's largest arms exporter led to his sanctioning by the US in 2018. This adds a controversial element to his appointment as defense chief. It is not yet clear whether his disappearance is related to any of his personal history or background or whether it is a genuine health concern.
Speculation and Concerns
Li's disappearance has led to heightened speculation and concerns amongst citizens and the global community alike. Given the developing US-China tensions, his recent absence could have significant implications for various global interests.
Conclusion
While the reasons for Li Shang-Fu's disappearance remain unknown, the global community and especially China's citizens are on high alert. His public absence is significant, given his appointment as Defense Chief, and could have wide-ranging implications for global relations and security.
Li was appointed as the defense chief in March and is one of China's five state counselors