Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi retained his job and was also promoted to a state councillor on Monday, meaning he now has the country's two top diplomat roles, in a vote of confidence for his strong defense of China's interests.

Sources had previously said that Wang would probably become a state councillor with responsibility for foreign affairs, and that he may also keep his job as foreign minister.

He has been likened to a "silver fox" in China's state media, and online, for his looks and his staunch defense of Chinese positions, which has won him a loyal following. Foreign diplomats say he can be suave and charming, as well as tough.